Proper care of a dental implant

Proper care of a dental implant is particularly important to guarantee a long shelf life. Different implant systems and their structure require different care. In contrast to a dental implant, your own tooth has its own special anchoring mechanism in the bone and a higher level of endogenous defense. Although implants cannot develop tooth decay, they are prone to periodontal disease. Periodontal diseases on the implant, the so-called peri-implantitis, must therefore be prevented. Peri-implantitis can lead to bone loss and inflammation, which in the further course can lead to the loss of the implant.

Read more on the topic: Inflammation on the dental implant

This must be taken into account when brushing your teeth

Germs can penetrate better between the dental implant and the gums, because the gums in the area of ​​the dental implant are rather loose and germs can penetrate more quickly and trigger inflammation. A soft toothbrush with rounded bristles should be used to avoid damaging the surrounding gums. The toothbrush should be placed at a 45 ° angle so that the bristles can easily reach the connection between the gums and the tooth crown.

In addition, it is important to ensure that the pressure is not too strong in order not to displace or injure the gums. Thorough cleaning of the gaps is also particularly important when caring for the implants. Cleaning with a toothbrush alone only reaches the external surfaces of the tooth crowns, which is why cleaning between the spaces is also necessary. This can be done with dental floss or an interdental brush. A normal toothpaste is sufficient for cleaning the dental implants. It should not contain high amounts of surfactants or abrasive cleaning agents, as is the case with whitening toothpastes.

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Should I use an electric or manual toothbrush?

With an electric toothbrush, the correct cleaning movement is already integrated, but good cleaning of the teeth and the dental implant is only possible with the right tooth brushing technique. Using a manual toothbrush is also possible with proper technique. Nevertheless, examinations and studies are carried out again and again on this topic. It has now been proven by scientific studies that cleaning teeth with an electric toothbrush is significantly more effective. Ultrasonic toothbrushes are particularly recommended.

Find out more about the topic: Proper dental care

Mouthwash

Mouth rinses should only be used after mechanical cleaning. Ready-to-use mouth rinses support daily oral hygiene. They contain antibacterial agents that inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause inflammation. It is important not to use a mouthwash that is too strong or aggressive on a daily basis. Some products are only intended for short-term use and, with prolonged use, can discolour the tongue and teeth or cause taste disorders. It is best to find out about the right mouthwash solution from the dentist or pharmacy.

Also read the article on the topic: Mouthwash

This must be taken into account with dental floss

As cleaning the interstices is very important, especially when caring for implants and not all surfaces can be reached by brushing with a manual or electric toothbrush, the additional use of dental floss is recommended. Dental floss should be used once a day after brushing your teeth. With dental implants, the connection between the dental implant and the structure (tooth crown), in contrast to natural teeth, creates a larger space.

In this area the gums are mostly loose, so a special dental floss is helpful. Superfloss®, a special dental floss with a wider, soft part, which is used to clean the connection between the abutment and the implant, is particularly suitable for implant care.

Read more on the topic: Interdental cleaning with dental floss

How often should you go to a professional teeth cleaning?

Professional teeth cleaning is very important when caring for implants. With professional teeth cleaning, cleaning techniques for at home are explained and can be optimized in addition to cleaning. In addition, the gums are checked. Professional teeth cleaning should be done twice a year. In addition, the implant should be checked by a dentist once a year.

For more information, see: Professional tooth cleaning