Caring for Dental Implants in Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Basic Oral Hygiene Habits

Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your dental implants. Oral hygiene habits to follow include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

Brushing Your Teeth

One of the most effective ways to maintain dental implants is by brushing your teeth twice a day.

Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Soft bristles are gentle on the gums and implant surfaces, reducing the risk of gum recession and damage to the implant.
Brush Gently: Avoid applying too much pressure. Use a gentle, circular motion to clean all sides of the implant and the surrounding gum tissue.
Consider an Electric Toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes can provide a more thorough cleaning, especially around the implant areas.

Flossing

Flossing is crucial for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around your dental implants.

Use Implant-Specific Floss: There are flosses designed specifically for use with dental implants. These are usually softer and more effective at cleaning around the implant without causing damage.
Floss Daily: Make flossing a part of your daily routine to prevent plaque buildup that could lead to gum disease and peri-implantitis.

One of the best methods for flossing is known as a Waterpik. It can reach difficult spots and keep the gum line clean.

Using Antibacterial Mouthwash

Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce the risk of infection and inflammation around the implants.

Choose Alcohol-Free Mouthwash: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out the mouth, leading to irritation. Opt for alcohol-free options that are gentle on your oral tissues.
Rinse Twice a Day: Use mouthwash in the morning and before bed to keep your mouth bacteria-free.

Routine Visits to the Dentist

Even with a diligent home care routine, professional teeth cleanings are necessary to remove hardened plaque (tartar) that can’t be removed by brushing and flossing alone. Our dentist will use specialized tools to clean around the implants without damaging them. During your checkups, our dentist will also assess the health of your implants and the surrounding gum tissue. This includes checking for signs of peri-implantitis, bone loss, and other potential issues.

How often should I visit the dentist after getting dental implants?

After receiving your dental implants, you’ll want to continue to visit your dentist once every six months. By maintaining regular dental visits, you’ll ensure your dental implants stay in excellent shape along with your surrounding natural teeth.

Can I continue to use my regular toothbrush and toothpaste on my dental implants?

Most dentists recommend using a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically formulated for dental implants, as they’re designed to clean and protect the implant post and surrounding tissue without causing damage. Your dentist will recommend the best toothbrush and toothpaste for your specific case.

Can I brush my implants like natural teeth?

Yes, but be gentle and use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Consider using an electric toothbrush for more thorough cleaning.

Can plaque grow on implants?

Yes, plaque can grow on implants just like it can on natural teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums, and if not removed through proper oral hygiene practices, can lead to gum disease and other oral health issues.

Similarly, plaque can accumulate on the surface of dental implants, leading to inflammation and potential implant failure. This condition is known as peri-implantitis and can cause bone loss around the implant.

What's the best toothpaste for a dental implant?

It’s generally recommended to use toothpaste that’s low in abrasive particles, as these can scratch the surface of the implant or the restoration attached to it. Look for toothpaste that has a low RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasivity) value, ideally under 70.

Some toothpaste brands also offer specialized formulations for people with dental implants, which may include ingredients such as antibacterial agents to prevent plaque buildup or enzymes to break down bacteria.

Do I need to avoid any specific foods after getting dental implants?

In the initial healing phase, avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods. In the long term, it’s best to limit sugary and acidic foods to protect your oral health.