So, you’ve got dental implants—congratulations! Implants are a fantastic solution for replacing missing teeth, giving you a strong, natural-looking smile. They don’t decay like natural teeth, which leaves some patients wondering if they still need to brush and floss their implants as thoroughly. The answer? Absolutely! At River Stone Dental Center, we’re here to explain why maintaining excellent oral hygiene is just as important with dental implants as it is with natural teeth.
Why Dental Implants Still Need Regular Care
Dental implants are made from titanium and porcelain, which won’t decay like natural teeth. However, that doesn’t mean they’re maintenance-free. While your implant itself can’t get a cavity, the surrounding gum tissue and bone still need to stay healthy to support the implant. Plaque and bacteria can still build up around the implant, leading to issues like gum disease, peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant), and even implant failure if left untreated.
Brushing and flossing regularly help keep the gums around your implant healthy, protecting your investment and ensuring that your smile stays beautiful and functional for years to come.
How to Properly Brush and Floss Your Implants
Taking care of your dental implants isn’t much different from caring for your natural teeth. Here’s a quick refresher:
Brush Twice a Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to brush around your implants. Electric toothbrushes can be especially effective for reaching tricky areas around the implant.
Floss Daily: Plaque can still accumulate between implants and natural teeth, so flossing is crucial. If traditional flossing is tricky, try floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser, which are often easier to maneuver around implants.
Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria around the implant site and keep your gums healthy.
The Risks of Skipping Oral Hygiene for Implants
Just because your implant can’t get a cavity doesn’t mean it’s safe to skip brushing and flossing. Ignoring your implants can lead to serious problems, including:
Peri-Implantitis: This is an infection and inflammation around the implant, similar to gum disease. Peri-implantitis can cause bone loss around the implant, making it less stable and, in severe cases, leading to implant failure.
Gum Recession: Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum recession, which exposes the metal post of the implant and affects both the appearance and stability of your smile.
Implant Failure: Over time, neglecting your implants can cause them to loosen and fail. Implants are a long-term investment, and proper care helps protect them for the long haul.
Expert Implant Care at River Stone Dental Center in Germantown, MD
If you have dental implants, brushing and flossing are still crucial for keeping your mouth healthy and your smile bright. At River Stone Dental Center in Germantown, MD, Dr. Peajmun Razmjou and our team are dedicated to helping you maintain optimal oral health—whether you have natural teeth, implants, or a combination of both. If you have any questions about dental implant care or need a professional cleaning, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team. Schedule an appointment today and let us help you protect your investment in a healthy, beautiful smile!
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