You can find highly beneficial and comprehensive tooth replacements through implant dentistry from your dentist. Dental implants replace missing teeth both above and below the gumline. This way, you can restore the aesthetic, structure, and health of your smile thoroughly in the wake of tooth loss.
Many dental patients appreciate that fixed dental implants do not require extra maintenance, unlike removable dentures. However, this does not mean that you should slack when it comes to caring for your smile.
Oral hygiene is crucial if you want your implants to function as well as they should. But you must exercise caution in the way that you complete your oral hygiene regimen with new fixtures in your smile. Read on to find advice from your dentist on maximizing oral hygiene with your dental implants.
Practice Careful, Consistent Oral Hygiene
The prosthetic teeth that sit atop a dental implant will resist both staining and decay for a long-lasting, beautiful smile. However, you will still need to adhere to a good oral hygiene regimen to remove plaque and other residues that collect on the implants.
Plaque can spread and cause issues like cavities or gum disease. These problems can alter your smile and affect the fit of your implants. If the implant seems loose or hurts significantly, this may mean the implant is failing. This will require urgent attention from your dentist.
So you will need to practice proper oral hygiene, brushing your teeth twice each day and flossing daily, to prevent developing these dental problems and to protect your implants. However, directly after receiving implants, you will need to be careful near the healing surgical sites.
Brush and floss gently near your new implants while they heal to avoid disrupting your recovery. Your dentist can provide you with aftercare guidelines that include more details about how to keep your smile clean without harming your implants.
Use the Right Oral Hygiene Tools
The tools you use during your oral hygiene regimen will make a difference in the health of your smile and your dental implants. Use ADA-approved products, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, to ensure you achieve optimal cleanliness in your smile.
Dental implant patients will want to use a soft-bristled toothbrush in order to avoid scratching their prosthetic teeth. Not only could this disturb the implants’ appearance, but it can also allow bacteria to harm the implant.
You can also look into oral hygiene supplies designed specifically to clean implants. For instance, a water flosser will feature specific tips that can easily navigate around fixtures like implants for more thorough cleaning. And a flexible toothbrush can also boost your ability to scrub near your implants.
Mouthwash may enhance your oral hygiene regimen, but avoid this product directly after your implant surgery. Rinsing and spitting could hurt your healing surgical sites. Consult with your dentist to learn more about oral hygiene tools and techniques with regard to dental implants.