Teeth implants are straightforward to look after – here’s how….

There is one other advantage that they have over dentures though, which we will consider here.

Hopefully, we all know how to look after our natural Teeth but anyone looking to replace missing teeth should also consider how they will need to look after whatever option that they choose when the time comes.

Cleaning dentures

Whilst dentures are still the leading method of replacing missing teeth, they are not the easiest to look after. For a start, they have to be taken out of the mouth for cleaning. This is usually done by brushing them using special cleaning paste over a sink. Although it is recommended that this is done by placing a towel in the sink, just in case they are dropped, many people eventually let this slip and drop them on the hard surface, resulting in damage or breaking them completely. Although the dentures can be restored, it means that you will be without them for a while and it also adds to the ongoing expense.

Dentures also require overnight soaking before being returned to the mouth the next morning; a factor which can be inconvenient in some situations.

Cleaning dental implants

Dental implants require different cleaning at different times. Before we look at how to keep them clean once they are fully integrated into the jaw (typically around 3 months), let us look at the stages after they have been placed.

Stage 1 – When your implants are first placed, it is important that you take great care. You shouldn’t brush them initially and instead use a saline solution which is put in your mouth and ‘tipped’ over the implant. Our Canterbury implant team will provide more aftercare information at the time of your procedure.

Stage 2 – As the implant becomes more established, you may be able to start brushing them gently with a soft toothbrush. Again, the dentist will advise when you should commence this stage based on their observations during your post procedural checks.

Stage 3 – Once the implants have fully undergone the osseointegration process, the real benefits begin. Not only can you eat without worrying about their stability but you can clean your teeth exactly as you would if they were your Natural Teeth. Particular attention should be paid to the gums though, with the bristles angled towards them and flossing added to your routine if you don’t already. Professional cleaning by our hygienist every six months or so is also recommended.

What will happen if you neglect your cleaning?

You might think “what could possibly go wrong if I don’t keep my dental implants clean?”. It is true that neither the implant or the crown will decay as they are both made from artificial materials. However, that doesn’t mean that problems can’t arise. The fact is that, like natural teeth, they are dependent on healthy bone in the jaw to keep them secured in place. If you don’t clean your gums around the implant, then periodontitis or peri-implantitis can occur. This may well lead to a deterioration in the bone and surrounding ligaments which is likely to then lead to the implant becoming loose and unstable. Eventually, it may no longer be able to retain the implant any longer and it will fall out.

It is important then to pay special attention to your gums, both around your own natural teeth and implant. Providing that you do this, there is every chance that your dental implants could give you twenty or more years of service, remaining strong and secure during this time.

As you are hopefully used to cleaning your teeth and gums in this way, taking care of your new teeth implants should be straightforward. However, we do recommend continuing to see our hygienist to maintain optimal oral health and perhaps even improve your own cleaning regimen.

If you have a missing tooth or already wear dentures but aren’t entirely happy with them, why not arrange to see the implant dentist at Bradley & Partners Dental & Implant Clinic to find out more about them? You can arrange an initial consultation by calling our Canterbury dental clinic on 01227 463529 and we’ll be pleased to discuss your options.

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