By Dr. George Tunder – Montour Oral Surgery
Dental implants are one of the most durable and life-changing investments you can make in your oral health. But like natural teeth, implants require regular care to ensure they stay healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing for decades.
At Montour Oral Surgery, we don’t just place dental implants—we help patients protect their long-term results. Here’s how to care for your implants properly and avoid complications like peri-implantitis and implant failure.
1. Brush Twice Daily (Just Like Natural Teeth)
Dental implants may be artificial, but the tissue around them is not. Brushing at least twice daily is crucial for preventing plaque buildup around the gum line and implant crown.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean all surfaces of the implant.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, daily brushing is key to minimizing inflammation around implants and preventing bone loss [1].
2. Floss and Clean Between Teeth
Flossing is essential to remove debris and plaque between implants and adjacent teeth. Consider using:
- Implant-specific floss
- Interdental brushes (nylon-coated)
- Water flossers for deeper cleaning
A 2021 review found that using interdental brushes or water flossers significantly reduces the risk of mucositis and peri-implantitis in implant patients [2].
3. Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings and Checkups
Even though implants don’t decay, the surrounding gums and bone are susceptible to infection and inflammation. Professional cleanings every 3–6 months allow for early detection of problems and ensure long-term implant stability.
Research suggests that regular maintenance visits reduce implant complications by up to 50% [3].
4. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol
Smoking impairs blood flow and healing, making it a significant risk factor for implant failure. Excessive alcohol consumption may also increase plaque formation and gum disease.
Smokers are up to 2–3 times more likely to experience implant failure than non-smokers [4].
5. Protect Against Grinding (Bruxism)
If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a night guard can protect your implants and surrounding teeth from excessive pressure. Chronic bruxism can lead to bone loss or damage to implant-supported crowns.
6. Eat a Balanced, Implant-Friendly Diet
A diet rich in calcium, Vitamin D, and protein helps support healthy bone around your implant. Avoid biting hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy to prevent chipping your restoration.
7. Monitor for Warning Signs
Be on the lookout for:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Pain or discomfort near the implant
- Loose-feeling crowns or prosthetics
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact our office immediately. Early intervention can prevent implant failure.
Final Thoughts
Dental implants can last 25 years or more—but only with proper care. At Montour Oral Surgery, we provide customized aftercare instructions and follow-ups to ensure every implant patient enjoys a lasting, confident smile.
References:
- American Academy of Periodontology. (2020). Dental Implant Maintenance Guidelines.
- Schwarz, F., et al. (2021). Efficacy of mechanical plaque control in patients with dental implants. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 48(Suppl 22), 5–19.
- Monje, A., et al. (2016). Impact of maintenance care on the long-term success of implants. Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research, 18(4), 744–754.
- Chrcanovic, B. R., Albrektsson, T., & Wennerberg, A. (2015). Smoking and dental implants: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Dentistry, 43(5), 487–498.
