Flossing Dental Implants
If you’re in Scripps Ranch and you’ve just gone through dental implant surgery, now you’re probably wondering how to clean under dental implants or if it’s normal for tooth implants to hurt when flossing. The truth is, flossing around them is different from flossing natural teeth. The good news is that it may be easier than you expected! Flossing is a key part of maintaining proper oral hygiene, and using the best dental floss for dental implants can make a big difference. Read on to learn more!
Should I be able to floss under my dental implant?
Yes, you can and should floss under and around your dental implant daily. Even though implants don’t get cavities, plaque can still accumulate, leading to gum issues and affecting the surrounding teeth. By neglecting to floss or doing it ineffectively can result in serious problems like bone loss or even implant failure.
Since implants lack ligaments and roots, plaque and bacteria build up differently. You’ll need to focus on cleaning the gumline and the abutment, which connects the crown to the implant. One of the greatest risks to the long-term success of dental implants is peri-implantitis, a type of infection similar to gum disease. Fortunately, this can be prevented with regular flossing.
When can you floss after a dental implant?
Immediately after surgery, your gums will be sensitive, so it’s crucial not to disturb the healing area. You can typically start a few days after the surgery, but make sure you follow your dentist’s recommendations. They will likely suggest using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding flossing directly around the surgical site for the first week. Once the healing process is underway, usually after 7-10 days, you can begin flossing regularly.
However, flossing gently is crucial to protect both your implants and your gum tissue. Make sure to take your time, carefully working the floss between your teeth and around the implant. To make it easier, you can wrap it around the implant and glide it over the area to get a thorough clean without irritating the gums.
What kind of floss do you use for implants?
It’s best to use super floss, specifically designed for dental implants. This type of floss is thicker and more durable, with a soft, spongy or woven middle that effectively removes plaque around the gumline without damaging it.
Is it okay to use a Waterpik with implants?
Yes, using a Waterpik or any water flosser is an excellent option for cleaning around dental implants. In fact, many dental specialists recommend water flossers for implant care because they effectively remove food particles and plaque from areas that can be difficult to reach with traditional floss. A Waterpik is gentle on both the implant and gum tissue, making it ideal during the healing phase after surgery.
To get started, set it to a low pressure and consult your dentist to ensure it’s safe for your specific needs. Simply aim the water stream between your implants and gumline, allowing the water to flush out debris with minimal effort. This is particularly helpful for those with sensitive gums or when a tooth implant hurts when flossing, making regular flossing more difficult.
How to floss All-on-4 dental implants?
Maintaining All-on-4 dental implants is different from tackling regular implants because of the unique structure and design of the system. While both types of implants require consistent oral hygiene to avoid complications, the All-on-4 system supports a full arch of prosthetic teeth on just four implants, which presents its own cleaning challenges compared to individual implants.
Along with using tools like floss threaders, interdental brushes, or a Waterpik, it’s essential to include an antibacterial mouthwash in your routine to reach those tricky areas. Maintaining All-on-4 implants also involves regular dental visits, a balanced diet, avoiding hard foods and smoking, and managing teeth grinding—these all play a role in the long-term health of your implants. Don’t forget to schedule biannual checkups and cleanings to keep everything in top shape.
Need expert advice on best dental floss for dental implants? Contact Temecula Dental Implants & Oral Surgery today!
Looking for expert advice on the best dental floss for your implants? Have questions about how smoking affects your dental implants, or whether they’re suitable for seniors or what effect diabetes has on them? At Temecula Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, we’re here to help. Dr. Tsvetov and our skilled team can guide you through all aspects of dental implant care, ensuring long-term success and answering any concerns you may have.
Don’t compromise on your dental health—reach out to Temecula Dental Implants & Oral Surgery and schedule a meeting with Dr. Tsvetov. No matter if you’re in Scripps Ranch or surrounding areas, he’s ready to tackle any challenges and ensure you’re informed and comfortable at every step.
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