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Simple tips for caring for your implants

Dental implants are a permanent, low-maintenance solution for missing teeth–but just because caring for implants is easy, it doesn’t mean you should skip an oral health routine.

Brush twice daily

Although dental implants are not susceptible to cavities, food particles and plaque will still invite bacteria, which may lead to infection. You’ll still need to brush your replacement tooth twice daily along with the rest of your mouth.

Purchase a water flosser

For most people, using a water flosser after regular flossing is a great way to remove hidden food particles from hard-to-reach places.

Schedule regular checkups

Stay on top of dental care by visiting your dentist every six months. Routine checkups are just as important for replacement teeth as they are for your natural ones.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush

Hard-bristled toothbrushes might damage the surface of your crown over time and irritate or injure your gum tissue. Most dental professionals recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush to both remove plaque and food debris while protecting your prosthesis and gums.

Choose a low-abrasive toothpaste

Different brands or types of toothpaste can be more or less abrasive on your teeth. Over time, an abrasive toothpaste could wear away at the outside surface of your crown. It’s best to avoid whitening or stain removing toothpastes as these tend to be more abrasive.

Use an interdental brush

An interdental brush is a special type of brush designed to clean the space between your teeth. In addition to your daily flossing, using an interdental brush one to two times a week can help remove plaque that has built up in the gap between your teeth.

Avoid risky habits and behavior

While dental implants and the replacement crown that fits on top are made of very hard, durable material, there is still the possibility of damage, just like your natural teeth. Treat your dental implant kindly by:

  • Not chewing on ice, pencils or hard candy
  • Avoiding smoking
  • Wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth