Do I need to change my flossing technique for a tooth implant?
Before you got an implant, hopefully, you were brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. If you wore dentures, you should have been cleaning them with a denture paste and brushing the soft tissues in your mouth.
A permanent dental implant requires brushing and flossing as well. This area is especially prone to plaque and inflammation if not cleaned regularly. The flossing method for your tooth implant is a bit different.
Criss-Cross Shoe Shine
Insert the floss behind the implant and bring both ends through to the front. Cross the strings, and swap hands so your hands aren’t crossed. Now move in a shoe-shine motion to clean all around the implant.
Some individuals prefer the tape style floss over the conventional type.
Gentle and Thorough
When brushing, use a soft toothbrush and low-abrasive toothpaste. Aggressive brushing can damage the soft tissues in your mouth and result in gum recession.
Manual, Electric, or Sonic Brush?
You can use a manual brush, electric, or sonic type. If it is difficult for you to brush with a manual brush, try an electric or sonic style.
Some patients are advised to use an interproximal brush to clean around the implant area.
You may also be prescribed an antimicrobial mouth rinse. This is an measure of protection if you have restricted mobility or are susceptible to inflammation.
Contact Stephen Ratcliff Family & Cosmetic Dentistry:
817-274-7875
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
909 W Mitchell St
Arlington, Texas
76013
