What You Need to Know About Flossing with Dental Implants

Dental implants are the most reliable method of treating lost teeth. They are proven to last for over 30 years with the correct care. With over a 95% success rate, you’ll never have to budget for replacements if you commit to keeping your mouth clean and healthy. However, brushing alone won’t protect your smile from dental implant failure. Here’s why you don’t want to skip flossing your dental implants.

Flossing Prevents Dental Implant Failure

Peri-implantitis is a leading cause of dental implant failure. It is a preventable infection that’s like gum disease. It is caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup, most often from poor oral hygiene habits. 

Your toothbrush is the most used item you have at home to keep your mouth healthy by removing food residue and plaque. Unfortunately, your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere in your mouth. Plaque and bacteria can hide in hard-to-reach areas, like around your dental implants. Daily flossing is the only way to remove the buildup your toothbrush can’t reach.

Flossing with Dental Implants

Not much is different when flossing dental implants compared to your natural teeth, but there is one big difference. Dental implants don’t have any nerve endings, so it’s easy to accidentally floss too hard, damaging your gums. It’s important to floss gently when cleaning around your implants. 

Use 12 to 18 inches of waxed dental floss wrapped around your index fingers on both hands, leaving about 6 inches of string between the two. Carefully insert the floss between two teeth and form a “C” shape. Slide the floss down to your gum line and back up to your tooth crown. Repeat this process for every tooth. 

When flossing your dental implants, you will insert the floss around your restoration. Wrap it around to form an “X” in front of the implant. Carefully move it back and forth to remove plaque. 

A waterflosser is often preferred for patients with dental implants. Gentle water pressure is used to clean the most hard-to-reach areas in your mouth, including around your dental implants. There’s no risk of accidentally damaging your gums.

Don’t Ignore Gum Inflammation

With good oral hygiene practices at home and regular care from your dentist, you can safeguard your smile from peri-implantitis. However, complications can occur in less than 5% of cases. If you notice red, swollen, or bleeding gums, do not wait to contact your dentist. They can provide the prompt care you need to prevent dental implant failure.

About Dr. Arabella Christian

Dr. Christian earned her dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and has continued her education in various specialties, including endodontics, dental implants, and gum disease. She is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the Connecticut State Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (860) 589-2794.