Unlike other tooth-replacement options, dental implants can last a lifetime if you take care of them the right way. Fortunately, they can be cared for in the same way as your natural teeth: brushing, flossing, and making regular visits to the dentist. However, according to a 2020 article by Dentistry Today, about 58% of people don’t floss at all. Keep reading to learn why flossing with dental implants is so important, how it’s different from cleaning just your natural teeth, and how to do it properly.
Why Is Flossing So Important?
Though many people grew up hearing how important it was to floss their teeth every day, many still avoid doing it. This oral hygiene step is treated as an optional addition to your daily routine, but it’s key to keeping your smile healthy by preserving your natural teeth and preventing dental implant failure. Skipping the floss means that you’re leaving 40% of plaque on your teeth, which raises your chances of developing decay on any remaining pearly whites. Leaving harmful oral bacteria in your mouth also makes you more likely to develop gum disease, which can cause both your teeth and implants to fall out if it gets bad enough.
Why Flossing with Dental Implants Is Different
The periodontal ligament is a fibrous joint that anchors the teeth to the alveolar bone socket that holds them in place. It also connects your gums and natural teeth, but the same can’t be said for dental implants. These titanium replacements for tooth roots don’t contain nerves, so you won’t feel any pain if they break. Though this may sound like a good thing, pain signals help keep you from pushing too hard into the gum pocket. Not experiencing those signals means that you run the risk of allowing bacteria to access the bone, which can wreak havoc on your implant.
4 Steps for Flossing with Dental Implants
When it comes to maintaining excellent oral hygiene, flossing before or after you brush doesn’t make much of a difference. Even so, it’s important to make sure you floss correctly to protect your natural teeth and implants from harm by following these steps:
- Step #1: Take an 18 inch piece of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers. Leave two or three inches of space to work with.
- Step #2: Gently slide the floss between each tooth and implant, using a “C” motion to adequately clean around the base.
- Step #3: Repeat the process for each tooth and implant until they have all been thoroughly cleaned.
If you need a refresher or are having trouble flossing with dental implants, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental team for assistance. By flossing every day, you can keep these life-changing restorations functioning as intended and looking their best for years to come!
About the Practice
If you’re in need of replacements for one or more missing teeth, Bal Dental Centre is here to help. They offer durable, high-quality dental implants to fill in your smile and give you back most of your bite power. Dr. Gus Bal is specially trained to place dental implants, so the whole procedure will be completed in-house. The gorgeous grin you’ve always dreamed of is within reach! Call Bal Dental Centre at (416) 267-6789 or visit their website for more information on dental implants or to set up an appointment with their talented Scarborough team.
