Approximately 5 hundred thousand people receive dental implant treatment every year. These implants are a safe choice for people who have lost one or more teeth, as they bond with the natural bones and support the replaced teeth.
It also has the added benefit of allowing replacement teeth to look like a natural tooth.
Getting the right treatment and proper cleaning for dental implants is key to prolonging their appearance and usefulness.
Below are some tips to help you keep your dental implant clean and hygienic if followed properly.
Tip – Use a Soft Bristle Toothbrush
Soft bristles are less likely to damage or bleed gums and are as effective as medium or hard bristles at removing tartar and plaque. In addition, electric toothbrushes are used to remove bacteria from the teeth more efficiently than manual toothbrushes, as they produce more strokes than the human hand.
Tip – Use a mouthwash
A water flosser, commonly known as a mouth or dental irrigator, disrupts and kills bacteria up to 6mm deep. Many dentists prefer water flossing over dental floss, as some types of dental floss will expel particles that cause peri-implantitis. So, make sure to use the water flosser to clean all the bacteria and germs in your mouth and keep it hygienic.
Tip – Brush Twice a Day
Brushing when you get up in the morning prevents morning odor and kills bacteria that accumulate in your mouth during the night. Similarly, brushing before bedtime kills bacteria that accumulates during the day and reduces the risk of plaque formation and decay overnight. Also, many dentists recommend brushing your teeth during meals or at some point in the day when food particles and bacteria need to be removed so they are no longer affected, especially when you have dental implants.
Tip – Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Avoiding smoking is good for your physical health. However, you should prevent them while having implants. Always remember that dental implants take about 6 months to heal, so smoking during this time can be dangerous. Drinking alcohol has also been found to slow the healing process of dental implants, so avoid it whenever possible.
