Taking care of your implant: cleaning and brushing techniques to make your prosthesis last
So you have a new dental implant in St John’s Wood and the new tooth has given you a new lease on life and a full smile. But how do you keep it healthy, durable and white?
Implants might be better than natural teeth in specific ways, in that they are stronger and immune to cavities. However, make no mistake, they do need to be looked after in similar ways to a natural tooth if you want the implant to last you the rest of your life.
So how should you look after your shiny, new pearly white? Are there extra steps that you should add to your cleaning regimen? Learn everything you should know in the Aura Dental’s guide to long-lasting dental implants in St John’s Wood.
How to clean your implants
- Brushing
Your cleaning habits will not change much; there are no special solutions that you will need to incorporate into your cleaning routine, but you do need to pay special attention to your new tooth.
Clean your implant, like the rest of your teeth, twice a day, and after you eat. Make sure to brush all points of the tooth using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head to reach the tiny crevices in your mouth.
Follow up brushing with flossing. Both activities should be performed slowly and gently. When it comes to choosing your floss, opt for one that is unwaxed. If you are not sure how to use floss, ask us, but the best way to remember is to picture a shoe shiner cleaning shoes. Try to copy that motion – the movement should feel natural. If you think that you are forcing the floss between your teeth, you are probably damaging your gums.
- The toothpaste
The paste you use is vital because a highly abrasive brand can damage your new tooth. Avoid brands that offer additional whitening, because these tend to be highly abrasive.
Most shop-bought pastes are safe to use, but if you are not sure, ask our dentist for recommendations.
- Mouthwash
The mouthwash should be like your paste, mild on your new tooth, but still effective in removing harmful microbes.
- Regular dental visits
While checking your dental implant in St John’s Wood, your dentist can also ensure your mouth is healthy.
The implant should be checked after it is fully healed, but with that, you should be making dental appointments every six months anyway. Any issues with the implant can be identified and easily treated then.
- Watch what you eat
Implants might not be vulnerable to decay, but failing to clean them properly can lead to plaque accumulation.
This build-up might not impact the tooth but will affect your gums, leaving them susceptible to diseases, such as gingivitis.
Aside from thorough cleaning, you should also try and curb your intake of sugar. There are germs in plaque that use this sugar to create toxins that attack your surrounding teeth and gums, leaving them in a weaker state.
Implants are a life-changer, but they do need special attention. Treat them well, and they will not let you down.