You may already know how to prevent dental implant infections, but do you know how to ensure that your implants last for a long time? Dental implant care and maintenance rely on two things: regular check-ups with Dr. Reese and a consistent, meticulous home-care routine. Home-care begins immediately after surgery to help maintain cleanliness around the surgical site and to initiate healing.
How you take care of your implants is essential for the long-term success of implants.
WHAT KIND OF MAINTENANCE DO DENTAL IMPLANTS REQUIRE?
Unlike bridges or dentures, dental implants require much less maintenance. In fact, they should be taken care of the same way you take care of any of your other, original teeth. Good oral hygiene must take place before, during, and after placement of dental implants to ensure the health of the implant.
DO THEY BRUSH AND FLOSS THEIR IMPLANTS LIKE REGULAR TEETH?
Taking care of dental implants is similar to taking care of natural teeth. Regular brushing of teeth, flossing and using a great holistic toothpaste along with dental products recommended by your dentist is enough to keep your implants clean and free from possible infection.
What toothpaste products should I use?
The toothpaste needs to be low-abrasive to not scratch the surface of any exposed surfaces of the implant (exposed threads, for example). Avoid baking soda and stain removers. Interested in a holistic toothpaste? Click for the review of the best holistic toothpaste.
What toothbrushes are best to use with implants?
There is no significant difference between sonic, electric, or manual toothbrushes when it comes to dental implant maintenance. Continue to brush twice daily to remove bacterial plaque with a low-abrasive toothpaste and a soft toothbrush (manual brush, electric, or sonic).
Should I still use floss? What kind should I use?
It is recommended to use unwaxed tape or implant-specific floss in order to protect the tissue surrounding the implant. Read more on the best dental floss. The key is to use a floss that doesn't stick to your teeth or irritate your gums.
Are mouthwashes safe?
Antimicrobial mouth rinses may be recommended, especially if inflammation is present or if the patient has dexterity problems, and difficult-to-reach areas. Consider The Herb Company's Tooth and Gum Tonic, ozonated olive oil, or coconut oil for oil pulling.
Establish a Consistent Home Care Routine
Whatever dental care products you would use is nothing compared to whether or not you are actually using them. Dental care is important and so is a healthy diet to provide good nutrition not only to your gums and teeth but also to your body. Home care is what keeps your dental implants in healthy condition - dental checkups are for checking the technical side of your dental implants. You need to ensure that your gums where your dental implants are places remain at the their healthiest (pink and firm) to prevent infection.
Dr. Reese has been doing dental implant procedures for years. You can browse his work on dental implants in this gallery. He assures you of his continuing care long after he has done implantation. If you want to discuss missing tooth replacement options or have been told that you are not a candidate for implants, you can contact his office for a second opinion or call 317-882-0228 to schedule an appointment in the Indianapolis area, just north of Greenwood, Indiana.