If you’ve replaced your lost teeth with dental implants, you’ve made a wise investment. They can last for decades with the right aftercare, so you don’t want to do anything that will compromise the success of your beautiful smile. You can safeguard it from preventable complications by committing to your oral hygiene. Although you might believe brushing is enough, here’s why flossing dental implants is also important and how to do it properly.
Protect Your Smile from Infection
The biggest threat to the longevity of dental implants is an infection called peri-implantitis. It is like gum disease because it is caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar buildup. Bacteria will infect the gum and surrounding tissues, which can cause your dental implants to fail. Thankfully, daily flossing can significantly lower your risk to ensure your smile lasts for a lifetime.
Flossing with Dental Implants
Flossing your dental implants will vary from what you’re used to when cleaning your natural teeth, especially if you have bridgework. You’ll need a floss threader, which is a small device that has a loop on one end and a flat edge on the other. It allows you to floss the thread under your bridgework and around the dental implants.
Choose high-quality dental floss that has earned the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Use about 18 inches of floss that has been threaded through the flosser. Gently insert the flat end between your gums and bridge. Slide it back and forth before carefully pulling it through the loop.
If you have a single-unit implant, you won’t need a flosser. Instead, gently insert the floss around your dental implant to cross in the front. Slide the floss back and forth to remove plaque.
As an alternative to traditional floss, many people find an oral irrigator easier to use. Also known as a water flosser, it emits a pressurized stream of water to loosen plaque from even the most hard-to-reach places. Some patients prefer to use an interproximal brush, which can fit into narrow places; however, don’t use one with metal wire because it can scratch the implant, leaving a small crevasse for bacteria to thrive.
After you’ve finished flossing your dental implants, don’t forget to brush for at least 2 minutes in the morning and at night. It’s best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to clean all surfaces of your teeth and restorations.
Maintain a Healthy Smile
Besides your home oral hygiene habits, you’ll also need to see your dentist at least every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll create a personalized plan to ensure your dental implants last for many years.
About Dr. Wendy Winarick
Dr. Winarick earned her dental degree at the Texas A&M University and has completed advanced training every year to provide advanced services. As a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry, she has the qualifications and reputation you can trust. If you’re interested in dental implants, contact our office today for an appointment.