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Dental Implant Maintenance

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How to Care for Dental Implants for a Long-Lasting Smile

Dental implants are designed to function like natural teeth, offering a durable and reliable solution for restoring your smile. While they are not vulnerable to cavities, they still require consistent care to keep them healthy and looking their best. To care for dental implants and enjoy a long-lasting smile, you should:

  • Brush at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
  • Floss once a day using floss designed for implants or an interdental brush
  • Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse to reduce harmful bacteria
  • Avoid chewing on hard objects that could damage your restoration
  • Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups

Proper maintenance of dental implants ensures they remain strong, functional, and attractive for many years. At Stubbs Dental, we guide patients across Layton, Bountiful, Murray, and Lehi, Utah, on the best daily routines and professional care plans to protect their investment.

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Why Dental Implant Maintenance Is Essential

Even though implants are made from materials that do not decay, they can still collect plaque and bacteria. Without regular cleaning, this buildup can lead to gum inflammation and more serious conditions that threaten implant stability.

If not addressed, early-stage gingivitis can progress to peri-implantitis, which can cause gum recession, bone loss, and even implant failure.

Consistent daily care, along with regular checkups, is the key to preventing these issues and protecting your dental health for the long term.

Avoid These Risks with Proper Dental Implant Maintenance Care

Bone Loss

Inadequate cleaning and maintenance of dental implants can contribute to bone loss around the implant site. Bone loss can weaken the foundation of the implant, compromising its stability and longevity. 

Peri-implantitis

Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to the development of peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding dental implants. If left untreated, peri-implantitis can result in bone loss, implant failure, and the need for additional treatments. 

Infection

Poor oral hygiene practices can increase the risk of infection around dental implants, known as peri-implant infection. Untreated infections can cause discomfort, swelling, and even lead to implant failure if the infection spreads. 

Step-by-Step Dental Implant Care Guide with Detailed Instructions

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Knowing how to clean dental implants is essential for keeping your gums healthy, preventing complications, and ensuring the long-term success of your smile. Whether you have a single implant or an All-on-X full-arch restoration, it is important to follow a thorough daily care plan and proper cleaning techniques.

Daily Dental Implant Care Includes:

  • Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a low-abrasive, tartar-control toothpaste. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline and use gentle circular motions to clean all sides of the implant crown. Spend at least two minutes brushing, focusing on both the front and back surfaces to remove plaque effectively without irritating the gums.

  • Floss Once a Day: Use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean around the base of your implant. Gently guide the floss under the gumline and along each side of the implant post, moving it back and forth to remove plaque without causing irritation. For fixed bridges or All-on-X, use super floss or a water flosser to reach underneath the prosthetic, ensuring all areas are thoroughly cleaned.

  • Use an Antimicrobial Mouth Rinse: Rinse for 30–60 seconds with a non-alcohol, dentist-approved antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce harmful bacteria around your implant sites. Focus on swishing the rinse through your entire mouth, making sure it reaches around and under the implant crowns or bridge. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes afterward to let the rinse work effectively.

  • Schedule Regular Checkups: Professional cleanings help detect and prevent early signs of gum or bone issues. Schedule your checkup here.

All-on-X Dental Implants Maintenance

If you have All-on-X dental implants, following your dentist’s recommendations is critical for longevity. This includes daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits. Avoid habits like chewing ice or biting hard objects, which could damage the prosthetic.

Our All-on-X maintenance program offers ongoing cleanings, exams, and guidance to keep your smile healthy and looking its best.

Learn more about our All-on-X maintenance packages and sign up today.

IT'S TIME TO SMILE AGAIN

With convenient locations in Layton, Bountiful, Murray, and Lehi, we proudly serve patients throughout Northern and Central Utah and surrounding areas in Salt Lake County, Davis County, and Utah County. Our team is committed to providing personalized care and addressing any of your dental concerns in a non-judgmental and caring environment.

Our Dental Implant Services Include:

Single and Full Dental Implant Options Available

Improve Oral Health As Well As Your Smile

Get The Help You Need From Award-Winning Dental Experts