Google+
Call Today! 209-226-4963
SET APPOINTMENT

Dental implants are the ideal way to restore gaps in your smile created by missing teeth. This natural-looking restoration enhances the overall health of your smile by preventing your natural teeth from moving out of place.

Our patients really appreciate how convenient it is to take care of their dental implants. That’s because you don’t have to do anything special — just continue with your daily brushing and flossing. But there’s one major difference. Make sure to only use gentle hygiene products with your dental implants. This is important for two reasons: First, abrasive products can scratch the surface implants. Using gentle products will also protect the soft tissue that surrounds the dental implant.

Choosing the Right Hygiene Product to Protect Your Implants

We’ve put together this guide to help you select the ideal hygiene products for use with your dental implants:

  • Choosing the Right Toothbrush–There’s been a lot of research done regarding the type of toothbrush that’s best for dental implants. Scientists have concluded that both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective when used properly. Whichever type you use, it’s essential to find one with soft or extra soft bristles to protect the implant and your smile. It’s recommended to brush twice daily for at least two minutes and make sure to thoroughly cover every section of your smile. Many electric toothbrushes have timers to help remind you to brush long enough. Researchers also recommend electric brushes for anyone who has difficulty applying sufficient pressure on their own.
  • Choosing the Right Toothpaste–Many types of toothpaste contain abrasive ingredients and these should definitely be avoided. This includes smoker’s toothpaste and any type of toothpaste designed to whiten your teeth. It’s important to check the ingredients of the toothpaste you buy so you can avoid those that contain any of the following ingredients: baking soda, stannous fluoride, and sodium fluoride.
  • Choosing the Right Mouthwash–Rinsing with mouthwash doesn’t just freshen your breath. It’s also a key part of an effective daily hygiene regimen. That’s because antibacterial mouthwash helps prevent bacteria that cause decay and gum disease. Patients with dental implants will want to avoid any type of mouthwash that has teeth-whitening ingredients. You should also stay away from mouthwash containing alcohol because it causes dry mouth. This interferes with your body’s natural ability to fight off infection.
  • Choosing the Right Interdental Cleaner–Dental floss is the most common interdental cleaner. It’s extremely effective for removing plaque and debris between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. You’ll want to use nylon-coated floss with your implants because it glides between your teeth more easily. There’s also floss that’s designed specifically for use with implants. Many of our patients find interdental brushes to be a convenient and effective interdental cleaner. For use with implants, a plastic or plastic-coated brush is recommended.