How Do I Take Care Of My Dental Implants?

Excellent oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of dental implants. Right after surgery—and for years to come—good habits keep the tissues around your implants healthy and stable.

Care Essentials for Long-Lasting Implants

Use these four core habits to protect your implants and the surrounding gums and bone.

1. Twice-Daily Brushing

   Brush at least morning and night (and after meals when possible). This helps control plaque and protects against gum inflammation around implants. Electric toothbrushes can improve plaque removal efficiently and in less time.

2. Daily Flossing (or Water Flossing)

   Clean between teeth and around the implant crown every day. Traditional floss or specialty implant floss works well; a water flosser can be a good alternative if your hygienist recommends it. Interdental brushes with soft, non-metal cores are also helpful.

3. Routine Dental Appointments

   Regular exams allow your implant dentist to monitor implant health, coach home-care technique, and catch small issues early. Your dentist will personalize your recall interval based on your risk factors.

4. Professional Cleanings

   Professional maintenance is key for healthy gums and bone around implants. Many patients benefit from quarterly cleanings during the first year while habits are established, then every 3–6 months as advised by your hygienist.

Need help with an implant or considering one?

Missing a tooth and considering replacement? Already have an implant and need guidance on care? We’re here to help with all your needs. Book a visit with our implant dentist, Dr. Charles Ferzli, at Smiles of Cary Family Dentistry in Cary, North Carolina. Call us at (919) 646-6538.