Are you looking to learn how to clean dental implants properly?
Implants are some of the best long-term solutions that anyone who’s missing teeth can opt for. They give stable bones, a solid point of connection, and no visible gaps in your smile.
However, devices like dental implants need special cleaning techniques, much like the rest of your body. Yet, there are still a lot of things that need to be clarified about how to clean these devices.
But First, Why Doesn’t Normal Oral Hygiene Work?
Regular oral hygiene regimens and procedures need to be revised when cleaning dental implants. It is because dental implants are made of metal, and because of their location and shape, it is more challenging to keep them clean.
Toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss are not created equal. Regular hygiene supplies are not designed to adequately clean around and inside dental implants. It is essential to use appropriate cleaning aids specifically made to clean dental implants and ensure that the surrounding area is also maintained.
Luckily, we’ve corrected some patients’ mistakes when cleaning their implants. Read on.
1. Not Brushing Your Teeth Enough
Not brushing your teeth enough can be very problematic. Despite being an implant, You must keep your dental implant clean to prevent plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and even infection. It is because the suction created by the dental implants can make it harder to remove food particles and bacteria adequately.
Brushing your teeth often and thoroughly, getting an even brush around each dental implant is essential. It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day.
Ensure you brush your teeth at an angle of 45 degrees toward the gum line. It will help reach every surface of your implant.
2. Skipping Floss and Mouthwash
Brushing your teeth is not enough. Mouthwash is essential to help kill bacteria and reduce infection risk.
Flossing helps to remove the food particles and bacteria that accumulate around the implant. If not removed, there could be early implant failure.
When cleaning dental implants, it’s important to floss at least once a day and use an alcohol-free mouthwash twice daily. If you neglect to floss, the food particles and plaque will accumulate around the implant, leading to inflammation.
If inflammation occurs, the implant may be at risk for early failure. So, make sure to include these in your implant cleaning routine.
3. Using the Wrong Toothbrush and Cleaning Tools
Using a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush to clean around the implant and surrounding gum tissue gently is essential. Hard-bristled or manual toothbrushes can damage the implant’s surface or cause gum irritation and inflammation.
It’s also essential to use a toothbrush that is the right size for the implant and to brush gently. Too much pressure can cause the implant to become loose or even cause damage.
Dentists may prescribe other implant-cleaning tools, such as irrigators and special implant-specific brushes. You can also use ultrasonic toothbrush cleaners to clean dental implants, with or without antidotal agents.
If a person is prescribed antiseptics or antidotal agents, it is essential to follow the directions carefully. Using too much can damage the metal of the implant and the tissues that the implant is bonded with.
Additionally, it is essential to replace brushes regularly, gently brush gently, and avoid abrasion. Lastly, avoid using metal tools and scrubbers, which can further damage the implant’s material.
4. Using the Wrong Toothpaste
It is important to note that most kinds of toothpaste, even those containing triclosan and fluoride, can damage implant surfaces. It would help if you avoided it.
It is best to use mild, non-abrasive toothpaste made explicitly for dental implants. The Association of Dental Implantology usually recognizes these kinds of toothpaste and contain no harsh chemicals known to damage implant surfaces.
Finally, it is essential to rinse the implant very thoroughly after brushing. Any residual toothpaste can cause corrosion over time.
5. Rinsing with Hot Water
Hot water can damage the adhesive that holds the implant in place, leading to complications, pain, and infection. To avoid this problem, rinse the implants with warm water only.
Be sure to turn off the hot water before rinsing. Even small amounts can cause damage. In addition, keep a thermometer handy to detect temperatures below all other water sources.
Lastly, develop a cleaning routine with your dentist that includes using specific dental products, such as antimicrobial or unique cleaning solutions. By following these steps, you will ensure that your dental implant is not left vulnerable to the potential damage of hot water.
6. Using Bleach and Chlorine Cleansers
Using bleach and chlorine cleansers is not suitable for dental implants. While these products can clean the implant’s surface, they can cause underlying damage.
The damage can range from discoloration to etching of the implant due to the chemical being too caustic. Additionally, bleach and chlorine are too abrasive for implant materials and can cause scratches that can lead to bacteria buildup and plaque.
You should use milder and gentler cleansers to clean the implant, such as soap and toothbrushes with soft bristles. Additionally, specialized cleaning solutions may be recommended by a healthcare professional. It is also essential to follow up with a neutralizer to rinse off the implant after cleaning is complete.
7. Neglecting Your Dentist Appointment
Neglecting your dentist appointment should be avoided at all costs. Dental implants are an essential part of your oral health and require regular professional cleaning for optimal performance. If you are looking for another dental implant specialist, check the dental implants service linked here.
If an appointment is skipped, plaque and bacteria can quickly build up around the implant. It can lead to gum and bone damage, infection, and the potential risk of implant failure. Scheduling regular dental implant appointments for cleaning and adhering to a diligent home-care regimen can help reduce the risk of complications.
Keep These Mistakes in Cleaning Dental Implants in Mind
To properly care for your dental implants, maintain an effective oral hygiene routine. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly. Avoid common mistakes in cleaning dental implants, such as overly aggressive brushing, skipping flossing, or not scheduling regular check-ups.
Being proactive will ensure your dental implants look great and last long. Schedule a hygiene appointment with your dentist to ensure your implants stay pristine.
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