Dental implants are unique from dentures or partial dentures in that they cannot be removed from your mouth. They act just like regular teeth and, thanks to advances in dentistry, look just like your natural teeth as well. Dental implants do need to be regularly cleaned but the process is quite simple.

Clean dental implants as you do your natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day, morning and night. For the best care, consider brushing after every meal.

Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a toothbrush. A toothbrush with an angled handle will help you reach around the entire implant.

Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gumline.

Move the toothbrush in small circles along the front, back and top of the implant. As you brush the base of the implant, some bristles should hit the gum area.

Continue brushing for two to three minutes.

Spit into the sink, rinse your mouth with water and spit again.

Take a 12-inch length of dental floss and guide the floss around the dental implant. Use the floss to hug the side of the implant and take the floss all the way down to the gumline.

Maintain routine checkups with your dentist. Your dentist will assess the health of your implant during these bi-annual visits.

Tip

  • Consider an electric toothbrush which can offer a more complete cleaning. Brush your tongue with the toothbrush to improve your breath and maintain good oral hygiene.

Tip

  • If you experience any pain around your dental implant, see your dentist immediately.

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