Dental implants may look and feel like natural teeth, but they still require daily care to stay healthy and long-lasting. Keeping the area around your implants clean is crucial to avoid issues like gum inflammation or bone loss.
Here’s a practical guide for Canadian patients on how to clean around dental implants.
🪠 Why Cleaning Implants Matters
Even though implants don’t get cavities, the surrounding gums and bone can become infected if plaque builds up. This can lead to peri-implantitis — a serious condition that may cause the implant to fail.
🛌 Daily Cleaning Routine
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use low-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the implant crown
- Floss or use an implant-specific floss to clean between the implant and gum
- Rinse with antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
🤧 Recommended Tools
- Water flossers: Effective for flushing out debris under the gumline
- Interdental brushes: Great for cleaning around implant abutments (choose non-metal tips)
- Implant floss or super floss: Designed to clean wider spaces beneath bridges or bars
Ask your dental hygienist to demonstrate proper technique during your checkup.
🩺 Don’t Skip Your Appointments
Visit your dentist regularly for:
- Professional cleanings
- Monitoring gum and bone health
- Ensuring your implant is stable and functioning well
Have dental implants?
Let our Canadian dental team help you care for them properly. A few minutes a day can keep your smile strong for a lifetime.