What Happens If You Don’t Brush Implants?

Plaque Builds Up Around the Implant

The implant is designed to stay in the jaw but the gum around the implant still needs care. Plaque does not care if the tooth above the implant is natural or artificial.

When plaque builds up around the implant it can irritate the gum. The implant owner may notice redness or bleeding during brushing. The owners breath may also start smelling different not the fresh feeling desired.

Your Gums Can Become Inflamed

When the implant is ignored the implant can become a problem. The first stage is called peri- mucositis. This condition affects the tissue around the implant and is usually linked to plaque buildup.

The good news is that this stage is easier to manage. Cleaning and professional care can bring the implant back under control.

What You Might Notice

• Bleeding while brushing around the implant crown is a sign that deserves attention instead of brushing harder and hoping it will disappear.

• A slight tenderness around the gum. This can be easy to ignore because there is not always pain.

• Bad breath that keeps returning even after the implant owner has cleaned the mouth.

Ignoring It Can Affect the Bone

Because the implant depends on the surrounding bone for support ongoing inflammation is something that should not remain.

If gum inflammation progresses, the tissues and bone around the implant can become damaged. This condition is called peri-implantitis. In advanced cases bone loss can affect how firmly the implant is supported.

That is the part people usually do not think about. The implant is not brushed because the implant requires protection from decay. The area around the implant is cleaned because the gums and supporting tissues still need protection.

So How Should You Clean an Implant?

Treat the crown as part of everyday mouth care. Brush twice a day with a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Spend time along the gum line of only scrubbing the visible part of the crown.

Cleaning between the teeth matters too. An interdental brush can be very useful for reaching areas that a regular toothbrush misses. The dentist can show the owner the right size and technique for the implant.

Dental Implant Services in Popular Locations

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