Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there! Since they replace the roots of the missing teeth, they offer a wide range of benefits that you can’t find from other tooth replacement options. This includes additional stability, comfort, and longevity. However, it’s important to take all the proper steps to keep them in good shape. Flossing is one of them! Continue reading to learn why flossing is so important and the best technique to use.
Why Must You Floss Your Dental Implants?
Dental implants are resistant to tooth decay, so you may be wondering why flossing them is so important. The soft tissues that surround your dental implants are even more susceptible to gum disease than the tissues that surround your natural teeth. This is because your gums adhere better to your natural teeth by the periodontal ligament. Dental you have dental implants, this isn’t present. Instead, there is a weaker seal called a “peri-implant seal.” If this breaks, bacteria will easily enter the pocket. When left unaddressed, you can develop an infection in the area. Ultimately, it can spread to other areas of the mouth and eventually access the jawbone. This can lead to a variety of complications, like additional tooth loss and dental implant failure.
How Do You Floss Dental Implants?
To keep bacteria from building up between your implants and beneath the gumline, you need to be flossing every day, especially after meals. This is necessary to remove food debris that bacteria feed off. Flossing dental implants might sound like a challenge, but once you have the proper technique, it will be easy. Take the following steps:
- Start with about 18 inches of dental floss.
- Wrap the floss around your middle fingers, leaving about two to three inches between your hands to floss with.
- Gently slide the floss up and down between the teeth. Rub alongside the dental implant and crown.
- Floss around the base of the teeth.
- Gently work the floss up and out of your teeth.
- After each tooth, move to a clean area of the floss so you prevent the spread of food particles and bacteria to other parts of your mouth.
By keeping up an excellent oral hygiene routine, including flossing your dental implants every day, you will be able to benefit them for many years down the road. You may never have to worry about your missing teeth again!
About the Author
Dr. Alison Fitzgerald is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for nearly 15 years! She earned her dental doctorate from the Creighton School of Dentistry. Since then, she has attended advanced courses with Partners in Synergy, the Kois Center, Progressive Orthodontics, and the American Orthodontic Society. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at her office in Tucson, visit her website or call (520) 338-2980.