Toothbrushing Still Matters When You Have Dental Implants
Replacing a tooth with an implant does not remove the need for a daily cleaning routine. Plaque can build up around implant restorations and affect the surrounding tissues, while the remaining natural teeth still face decay and gum-disease risks.
Clean the whole mouth
Brush with a suitable toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for your natural teeth. Use the between-teeth cleaning method recommended for your implant restoration. A single crown, a bridge, and a full-arch restoration may require different techniques. If access is difficult, ask for help rather than assuming the area cannot be cleaned.
Measure success beyond appearance
A restoration can look attractive while inflammation develops near the gumline. Report bleeding, swelling, odor, or changes in stability. Keep the maintenance interval recommended for your risk, and bring cleaning tools to a visit if you want your technique checked. Atlantic Dental Associates of Shallotte can assess implant restorations and natural teeth together, helping you maintain the entire mouth rather than focusing only on the replacement tooth.