1. Clean Twice a Day
Dental implants give new smiles to people without all of their own teeth. No matter the size or amount of implants, they need care just like regular teeth. Brush and floss your dental implants twice each day. Use gauze or special floss to floss around your teeth, gums and abutments each day. The abutments are the devices that attach to the implants.
2. Best Brushing
Brush your fixed dental implants just like regular teeth. Brush all teeth thoroughly and pay special attention to back teeth and in between teeth. Use a soft bristle brush with a bent handle for cleaning behind the teeth and the abutments. It's also a good idea to use an oral irrigation device for extra deep cleaning. Brush removable dental implants with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Floss around abutments while the dental appliance is out of the mouth.
3. Visit Dentist Twice a Year
Good oral hygiene includes regular dental visits twice per year. This is especially true for people with dental implants. Every 6 months your implants need thorough cleaning and plaque removal. Your dental implants also need checking for proper fit and placement and repair if necessary. You dental hygienist is the only one who can clean your implants as thoroughly as needed, so these regular trips to the dentist are very important. Your dentist will also check the condition of your gums, jaw and anchors.
4. Mouth Wash Musts
Many dentists prescribe Chlorhexidine Gluconate Mouthwash after dental implants. This special mouthwash is a germicidal mouthwash that reduces bacteria in the mouth. This powerful mouthwash helps reduce the risk of post operative infection for patients with implants. Most dentists prescribe it for use one month after implants. The mouthwash has an unpleasant taste, but don't rinse it away or you may wash away the germ fighting strength. Your dentist will let you know if Chlorhexidine Gluconate Mouthwash is necessary for your particular situation.
5. White and Bright
Just like normal teeth, dental implants can stain over time. So it's important not only to brush and floss twice each day, but to cut down on things that stain the teeth. Smoking is never a good idea, and it's especially bad for implants. Coffee and tea are both teeth staining culprits, so be sure to brush and rinse well after drinking either. Talk to you dentist about whether teeth whitening products and procedures are safe for your dental implants.
