Many people have single or multiple dental implants los angeles to replace lost teeth. These implants provide a more permanent solution for tooth replacement without the complications dentures often cause. However, just as natural teeth need to be cared for, it is important to keep these implants clean and free from plaque. With proper oral hygiene, dental implants can last a lifetime. Although dental care of implants is similar to caring for natural teeth, there are some important steps to follow to ensure they are not damaged and are thoroughly cleaned after each meal.
The Right Tools
The right tools are a necessary part of maintaining dental implants los angeles. The dental care provider will often provide a list of tools specifically for the patient’s dental care needs. This will include a soft bristle toothbrush. It is important to use only a soft bristled brush to prevent damaging the implant during brushing. There are also toothbrushes that are designed specifically for implant care. These brushes have an angled neck and a slim brush head to ensure even narrow areas receive a thorough and gentle clean. The dental care provider may also recommend interdental brushes. These are soft, narrow brushes that can be used to clean in between teeth. There are even single tufted brushes available. These small brushes provide a convenient method for cleaning the areas where the implant meets the gum line and around any attachments.
In addition to having the right brushing tools, it is also important to have the right floss to care for dental implants los angeles. Dental tape provides a great option for cleaning in between implants. A water flosser can also be used to remove build up between the implants. Soft, rubber tipped dental picks are also an option. It is important to use items that are soft to avoid damaging the tooth. The dental care provider will often recommend specific products to best suit the specific implants.
The Right Techniques
Having the right tools for the care of dental implants los angeles is only half the battle. It is important to understand the proper way to use these tools to get the best cleaning and care for the implants. Proper usage will ensure the implants are not damaged and are thoroughly cleaned. Brushing with a soft toothbrush at least twice a day and flossing once to twice a day in the proper technique can provide proper oral hygiene for implant users.
The best brushing technique for dental implants is called the modified Bass technique. To perform this technique, place the head of the brush against the teeth at the gum line with the bristles partially on the gum. Tilt the brush to a 45-degree angle towards the gum. Move or wiggle the brush in small strokes at this position to break loose any debris on the gum line. Then, roll the brush to the top of the tooth in a flicking manner to brush away the debris from the gum line. Repeat this with each tooth. For the top or biting surface of the tooth, place brush straight on the surface and move gently back and forth over the entire surface of each tooth.
The best technique for flossing is to encircle the tooth with the dental tape. The dental tape should be inserted in between the teeth from the front and then, reinserted on the other side of the tooth from the back. The floss is then wrapped in a circle around the tooth. A “shoe-shine” motion is then used to remove debris from around the tooth. This should be performed with each implant to ensure a thorough clean.
Dental implants can be a permanent solution for missing teeth. However, similar to natural teeth, these implants are still at risk for damage and issues caused by improper oral hygiene. Following these tips and any advice given by a dental care provider can help ensure the dental implants los angeles will last a lifetime and ensure a beautiful, healthy smile.