You have made the decision to get dental implants to fix your smile, and now you are healed and set to take on the world. You would be joined by as many as three million others who have done the same thing to address their missing teeth. That number only continues to grow every single year across the United States. Dental implants are a popular long-term solution to fill the gaps in the mouth where natural teeth are absent.

To keep your mouth in good condition and as healthy as possible, you have to keep up with home care. The good news is that taking care of dental implants is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Still, it is a good idea to go over what you can do to ensure your dental implants and natural teeth are clean just in case you have been missing a step. The better you care for your dental implants the longer they will last. Cleaning dental implants also keep them looking great.

Residents of San Diego can learn more about dental implants by connecting with the San Diego dental implant dentist at McBride Dental.

Cleaning Dental Implants

Consider the following best practices when it comes to cleaning your dental implants:

Choosing a Toothbrush

Soft-bristled toothbrushes are more gentle on the teeth and gums. So when you brush, if you are prone to forceful and aggressive brushing, soft bristles will do less damage. Also, using soft bristles does not mean that you will be unable to remove plaque and buildup from your teeth. These toothbrushes work very well for getting rid of plaque. You can also choose an electronic toothbrush. Electronic toothbrushes are very capable of ridding your teeth of damaging bacterial accumulations.

Regular Brushing

Do not forget to brush each and every day at least two times per day. In the morning when you get up and right before bed is recommended. Remember, after your final brushing for the day, you shouldn’t be eating or drinking anything but water.

Floss

Patients with dental implants cannot forgo flossing and using a water flosser is typically going to be the best option. However, because of the strength of some flossers, you should choose to floss before you brush. The reason is that your toothpaste should have fluoride that stays on your teeth. If you water floss after your teeth are brushed, you risk eliminating it from the surface of your teeth. Otherwise, crown and bridge floss can do the job too. But if you choose this option, then opt to floss after you brush.

Choosing a Toothpaste

Abrasive toothpaste can strip dental implants of their sheen. There are products specifically formulated for dental implants. Look for these first or ask your San Marcos dentist for their suggestion.

Make an Appointment with a San Diego Dental Implant Dentist Today

Dental implants can change your life. The many benefits of dental implants are undeniable so it is incredibly important that you protect them. Proper cleaning and care will do this and allow you to enjoy their numerous advantages right after you get them and in the future. Call the San Diego cosmetic dentist at McBride Dental today to see if dental implants are right for you at (760) 471-1003.