According to the American Academy of Implant dentistry, dental implants are becoming the treatment of choice among adults with missing teeth, with more than 500,000 people each year opting for this dental procedure. In addition to replacing missing teeth, dental implants can be used to help stabilize a denture for improved comfort and function.
Ensuring the Longevity of Your Implant
To ensure your implant will last, it’s important to utilize specific techniques to keep it free of destructive plaque and bacteria. The dental hygienist is an important partner when it comes to keeping your dental implant clean. Because traditional metal scalers used on natural teeth can damage crowns and implants, your hygienist will use specialized tools made of resins and plastics to clean your implant without causing damage.
As an implant recipient, it’s also imperative for you to follow important care measures including brushing twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush using a low-abrasive toothpaste. Make sure to brush under and around the implant crown. Floss daily with unwaxed or implant-specific floss and use a nylon-coated interdental brush to clean hard-to-reach places.
For implants with overdentures, make sure to remove and soak the denture daily, inspect O-rings, clips, and locator caps. Also, gently clean the underside of the denture with a denture brush, rinse thoroughly before replacing it, and talk with your dentist about replacing locator caps and O-rings once a year.
All this extra effort is necessary because plaque and bacteria can cause infection in the tissues surrounding the implant, causing peri-implantitis and resulting in implant failure.
Dental Implants Near Wheaton
Dental implants near Wheaton can be an ideal dental choice despite the cleaning challenges they can present. The prevention of bacterial disease is vital to implant health and function, and an important part of your oral health. If you have questions regarding implant care, reach out to us at DuPage Dental Smiles.
