By Dr. George Tunder – Montour Oral Surgery
Dental implants are a major investment in your health, confidence, and quality of life. With proper care, they can last 25 years or more—but just like natural teeth, they require consistent maintenance to stay healthy and functional.
At Montour Oral Surgery, we’ve seen firsthand how good hygiene habits and regular follow-ups can help protect your implants for decades. Here are our top tips for long-term implant success.
1. Brush Twice a Day with a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Use a non-abrasive toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around your implant crown and gumline. Electric toothbrushes are highly effective for maintaining hygiene.
Studies show that electric toothbrushes significantly reduce plaque buildup around dental implants compared to manual brushing [1].
2. Floss Daily—Yes, Even Around Implants
Flossing around dental implants is crucial to prevent peri-implant disease (inflammation of the tissue around the implant). Use floss designed specifically for implants, such as:
- Nylon floss
- Super floss
- Interdental brushes
- Water flossers (like Waterpik)
A 2022 study concluded that patients who floss around implants at least once per day are significantly less likely to experience implant-related complications [2].
3. Use an Antibacterial Mouth Rinse
Antimicrobial rinses like chlorhexidine or alcohol-free options can help reduce plaque and bacterial load—especially in patients prone to inflammation or dry mouth.
Avoid mouthwashes with high alcohol content, which may irritate the tissue around your implant.
4. Avoid Tobacco Products
Smoking dramatically increases your risk of implant failure and infection. It restricts blood flow and impairs healing, making it harder for your implant to stay anchored in the bone.
Smokers have up to a 20% implant failure rate, compared to just 1–2% for non-smokers [3].
5. Protect Your Implants from Grinding
If you grind your teeth (bruxism), ask your dentist about a custom night guard. Grinding places excessive force on your implant and surrounding bone, potentially leading to complications.
6. Eat a Balanced, Low-Sugar Diet
What you eat affects your oral health. Minimize sugary snacks and drinks to reduce the risk of gum inflammation, and include plenty of:
- Calcium-rich foods (dairy, leafy greens)
- Vitamin D (fatty fish, fortified foods)
- Protein (for healing and tissue repair)
7. Schedule Regular Checkups and Cleanings
Visit your general dentist and implant specialist every 6 months, or as recommended. Routine maintenance appointments allow us to:
- Monitor gum health and bone levels
- Remove any tartar buildup
- Identify potential issues early
Research has shown that long-term implant success rates are closely tied to consistent professional cleanings and follow-ups [4].
8. Recognize the Early Signs of Problems
Call our office if you notice:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Looseness or discomfort around the implant
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Pus or signs of infection
Early treatment is key to preventing peri-implantitis, which can lead to bone loss if left unchecked.
Final Thoughts
Dental implants can last a lifetime—but only if you care for them like natural teeth. At Montour Oral Surgery, we’re committed to helping you maintain your oral health and investment.
If you ever have questions or concerns about your dental implants, we’re just a phone call away.
References:
- Slot, D. E., et al. (2012). The efficacy of manual vs. powered toothbrushes in patients with dental implants: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Dental Hygiene, 10(3), 187–195.
- Heitz-Mayfield, L. J., et al. (2022). Peri-implant health, diseases, and prevention: A clinical update. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 49(S24), 36–43.
- Chrcanovic, B. R., et al. (2015). Smoking and dental implants: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Dentistry, 43(5), 487–498.
- Roccuzzo, M., et al. (2010). Maintenance of implants in patients treated for periodontitis: A 5-year follow-up. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 37(2), 173–181.
