Dental implants are fantastic for many reasons, but one that often gets overlooked is just how easy they are to take care of. You simply treat them like your regular teeth, brushing and flossing as normal. But why should you bother flossing your implants at all? Aren’t they cavity-proof? If you’re curious, continue reading. You’ll see why flossing is extra important for dental implants and learn some ways to keep them in peak condition.
Why Does Flossing Matter for Dental Implants?
Even though dental implants can’t get cavities like natural teeth, flossing is still essential. Your gums need special care to avoid inflammation and infections, like peri-implantitis, which can weaken your implant over time. By flossing regularly, you’ll help keep plaque and bacteria at bay, ensuring your gums stay healthy and your implant remains secure!
How Should You Floss Dental Implants?
Flossing around dental implants is as easy as caring for natural teeth. Here are some helpful steps to floss like a professional:
- Thread the Floss Gently: Start by threading the floss between the implant and your gum line. Be sure to avoid snapping or forcing the floss down, as it could irritate your gums or loosen your implant.
- Create a Loop Around the Implant: Once the floss is in place, wrap it in a C-shape around your implant, so it hugs the restoration so that it can clean on both sides effectively at once.
- Slide the Floss Up and Down: Gently move the floss up and down along the sides of your implant, making sure to reach below the gum line to clean away any plaque or debris that may be hiding there.
Are There Any Good Flossing Tools That Can Help?
If regular flossing isn’t your thing, don’t worry! There are several tools designed to help you keep your implants clean without the hassle of traditional floss. Water flossers, in particular, are a great option. These hand-held devices use a stream of water to remove plaque and food particles from hard-to-reach areas.
If a water flosser is out of your price range, interdental brushes are another good alternative. These thin brushes are designed to get between the implant and gum line, providing a gentle yet effective clean.
Just like with natural teeth, flossing around your dental implants should be part of your daily routine. Regular oral care and regular trips to your periodontist are two sides of the oral health coin that will help keep your dental implants strong and effective. So, if it’s been a while, reach out to your periodontist today and schedule a cleaning. Your smile will be glad you did!
About the Author
Dr. Marcos E. Garcia is a talented and friendly periodontist who truly enjoys helping his patients achieve their best smiles. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston. Since then, he has spent much of his time researching and honing his skills to better aid his patients. Call (361) 992-7641 to schedule a dental implant consultation at South Texas Periodontics & Implants or visit our website to learn more.