How Can You Floss Your Dental Implants?

In today’s world, Dental Implants have become a favored solution for replacing any missing teeth. The success rate of Dental Implants is 98% according to stats. This makes them a reliable choice for restoring smiles. However, the journey does not end with the placement of Implants. There’s also a need for proper hygiene to make sure of its longevity.

In this article, we will discuss Flossing and how to properly do it after getting Dental Implants. Let’s get into it!

What Is The Importance Of Flossing Around Dental Implants?

Just like natural teeth, Dental Implants are very susceptible to gum disease and plaque buildup. While Implants by themselves cannot decay, the surrounding bone and gums can become inflamed/infected if not properly cared for.

Flossing helps in removing the food particles and plaque from spaces between the teeth and around Implants. This actively reduces the risk of peri-implantitis. It is a condition that leads to an Implant failure.

Regular flossing around with brushing is important for maintaining both the functionality and aesthetics of dental implants.

Steps To Properly Floss Dental Implants

It is possible to floss safely with Dental Implants. If you are not sure about the proper technique then follow these steps:

Step 1

Take 12-18 inches of dental floss and then wrap it around your middle finger. You need to leave a space of about 2-3 inches wide in between as well.

Step 2

Then slide the dental floss up and down between the teeth. Rub the floss along the side of the Dental Implant and Crown. Make sure to not put the floss into your gum line. Also never snap the floss between your teeth. Being gentle is very important.

Step 3

Now you need to work the floss around the base of your tooth. Create a C-shape when you clean both your natural teeth and dental implant.

Step 4

After you have already cleaned between and around the two teeth, floss up and out in a gentle manner. Being gentle is important so that the dental implant’s healing process does not get disrupted.

Step 5

After you have already cleaned between and around your teeth. Floss out in a gentle manner. This step is very important and it is recommended that you do not rush with it.

Step 6

Now move onto a clean section of the floss and repeat the process for the whole of your mouth. That’s it for flossing Dental Implants.

Tips For Implant Flossing

Flossing an Implant tooth requires a whole different approach as it is not a natural tooth. Here are a few general tips to follow when flossing your Implants:

Thread The Floss Properly

You need to thread the floss between your gums and dental implants. To make things much easier, you can use a floss threader with a loop at one end and a flat edge at the other.

Move It Gently

You need to be gentle when flossing especially around the Dental Implant site. This is because being harsh with the area can disrupt healing.

Get An Oral Irrigator

Patients whose traditional floss is difficult to use can try an oral irrigator. It is also known as a water flosser. It gives off pressurized water for loosening plaque and food particles from the tight spaces inside of the mouth.

Exercise A Strong Caution

Overall you need to exercise a strong caution when flossing around the area. Otherwise, it can harm healing.

Using the Same Section Of Floss

Reusing the same section of floss for multiple areas can transfer bacteria. Hence, it is recommended that you use a clean section for each implant. This would prevent the bacteria from spreading onto the section of non-affected teeth.

Techniques For Implant Flossing

It is very important to choose the correct technique for Implant Flossing. Here are the two most common types:

Waxed Vs Unwaxed

For flossing Dental Implants, it’s recommended to use a Waxed Dental Floss. This is because they glide more smoothly between teeth and around the implants. This reduces the risk of shredding or fraying.

Thick vs. Thin

Some individuals find that a thicker floss works better. This is even more so if there are wider spaces between the implants. Dental tape is also a good option for those with larger gaps.

In Conclusion,

Flossing Dental Implants is not only about the routine. It is a crucial step in preserving investment and ensuring long-term oral health. By adopting the right techniques and incorporating them into your daily hygiene regimen, you can reduce the risk of complications and keep your smile radiant.

For getting personalized guidance and care, visit Dr. Anupama Dental and Aesthetic Clinic. We have a dedicated team who can help you in navigating your implant care journey. Do not leave your smile to chance and schedule an appointment with us today!