At Westport Periodontics & Dental Implants, we understand that getting a dental implant is a significant investment in your oral health. A single implant not only restores function and aesthetics but also plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health of your mouth. Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and success of your implant.
The Importance of Implant Maintenance
A dental implant is designed to replicate the structure of a natural tooth, with a titanium post anchoring into the jawbone and a crown that restores the visible part above the gum line. Like natural teeth, implants require regular care to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria that can lead to infections and diseases.
Daily Care Routine
Maintaining a single implant involves a daily hygiene routine similar to that for your natural teeth:
- Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean around the implant crown and gum line at least twice a day.
- Flossing: Utilize implant-specific floss or interdental brushes to remove plaque and food particles from around the implant and beneath the gum line.
- Mouthwash: Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce plaque and bacteria.
Professional Maintenance and Check-ups
Regular dental check-ups are crucial to the long-term success of your implant. These visits allow your dental professional to monitor the implant, surrounding gum, and bone health. Professional cleanings, typically every six months, help manage plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing might miss.