How to Care for Dental Implants…

Dental implants are a modern, durable, and aesthetically superior solution for replacing missing teeth. However, their longevity and success largely depend on proper oral hygiene after placement.  Below, you will learn how to properly care for your implants immediately after the procedure and how to maintain daily hygiene for long-term oral health.

Care can be divided into the period immediately following the procedure and long-term, daily hygiene.

The first few days after implant placement are crucial for the osseointegration process – the fusion of the implant with the bone. Here’s what the team of experts at Dental Škaričić advises:

1. Avoid Rinsing Your Mouth for the First 24 Hours To avoid dislodging the blood clot, do not rinse your mouth, smoke, or consume hot food on the first day.
2. Use Cold Compresses to Reduce Swelling Place a cold compress (e.g., ice wrapped in a cloth) on the outside of your cheek to reduce any potential swelling.
3. Brush Gently Start gently brushing the surrounding teeth from the second evening onward. Clean the implant area very carefully, avoiding direct contact for the first few days.
4. Take Your Medication If your dentist has prescribed antibiotics or analgesics, take them regularly as instructed.

Once the wound has completely healed, your dental implant should become part of your regular tooth care routine. However, certain adjustments are key:

1. Proper Brushing (2 times a day) Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a circular motion technique. Don’t forget the area between the gums and the implant.
2. Use Interdental Brushes and Dental Floss Dental floss and interdental brushes help remove plaque between the implant and natural teeth.
3. Antibacterial Mouthwashes Use mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine (as recommended by your dentist), but not for long-term use as they can cause discoloration.
4. Regular Professional Check-ups Visit your dentist at least once a year for an implant check-up and professional cleaning.

Dental implants are a great solution for restoring the function and aesthetics of your smile, but they require a serious approach to hygiene. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, you can ensure your implants last for decades.