How to Care for Dental Implants

The process of getting dental implants is long and involved. Afterward, you will go through a period of swelling and some bleeding. That's normal. Once you get through that, you're ready to resume eating regular foods and get back to normal. Taking care of your dental implants is as easy as taking care of your own teeth. In the following steps, learn how to properly care for your dental implants.

Instructions

• 1

  Follow your doctors orders after getting dental implants. For the first few days, you don't want to brush them because they're sensitive. But, use the special mouth wash your doctor provided.

• 2

  Brush your implants just like you would your own teeth. Do so after every meal once you get through the first few days.

• 3

  Use a special brush to clean the abutments. A small tooth brush should also work.

• 4

  Brush behind the abutments, using a tooth brush with a bent handle. This will allow you to access the area easier.

• 5

  Floss your dental implants regularly, especially after meals. Also floss the abutments from the front and the back.

• 6

  Schedule additional cleanings to keep your dental implants in tip-top shape. You may need four every year.

• 7

  Know that routine maintenance and X-rays may also be needed. The implant is designed to last a long time but the teeth can experience wear and tear just like any other artificial substance.