Hygiene in implant dentistry

Appropriate hygiene of implant-supported prosthodontic restoration is crucial. Keeping teeth clean will ensure not only that they look nice, but – more importantly – will make it possible to avoid the so-called periimplantitis to develop, which in turn could lead to gingival recession and implant surface exposure. Due to oral hygiene neglect for a number of years and permanent inflammation, implant may be even lost.

Do not rinse and do not use mouthrinses for at least 24 hours, the teeth should, however, be brushed carefully. Use the toothbrush in a careful and gentle manner, but please pay attention to brushing teeth. Clean oral cavity makes healing occur at a faster pace.

While brushing, a two-stage system should be used. The teeth should be brushed from the top to the bottom, and then from the bottom to the top. This helps to remove all food remnants that could get stuck within the elements of the braces. The brush should be placed in standard, horizontal position. The teeth and the gums should be brushed using circular movements.

Electric toothbrushes are particularly indicated – they remove more dental Plaque than conventional manual toothbrushes. Nowadays, electric toothbrushes with tips for people with braces are available commercially. It is also advisable to get an irrigator – it removes dental plaque from around the braces and gingival contour with the use of water stream under pressure.

In some areas that are difficult to reach, it may be helpful to use single-tufted brushes, interdental brushes, and dental floss. Interdental toothbrush makes it possible to remove dental plaque that is difficult to reach, perfectly.

Super Floss has a stiff tip which makes it easier to put the floss under the arch of the brace. The fluffy part of the floss removes the Plaque from around the brace, and the standard part of the floss removes the plaque from between the teeth.

It is also advisable to get an irrigator – it removes dental plaque from around the braces and gingival contour with the use of water stream under pressure.

Regular check-up appointments are an important element of appropriate prophylaxis: once every 6 months. It is important that the check-up be performed by an implant dentistry specialist, and not a general dentist.

During the appointment, the clinician assesses:

• The state of the implant,
• Prosthodontic restorations (crowns, bridges, or dentures).