Why It’s Important to Care For Your Dental Implants

One of the questions we get asked all of the time is, “If I’m getting dental implants, and they’re not “real” teeth, why do I need to brush and clean them?”

Your dental implant or implants are substitutes for your natural tooth roots. They are securely inserted into the jaw to help preserve bone and facial structure. We place these titanium “roots” and then ultimately fit replacement “teeth” on top in the form of single crowns, dentures or bridges. The end result needs to be cleaned just like your natural teeth in order to keep the implant healthy since the same bacteria that forms on your natural teeth and gums can collect on your implants.

Drs. Fava and Levine and our team of hygienists can offer maintenance tips. And here’s what the American Academy of Implant Dentistry has to say: Caring for teeth restored with dental implants is just like caring for your natural teeth: brush, floss and maintain regular dental cleanings and check-ups, as scheduled. Additional cleaning aids also may be recommended to help you keep your teeth healthy at home. As is the case with natural teeth, you and your dentist must work as a team to ensure the longevity of your dental implant.  While replacement teeth can’t get cavities, they are subject to the same wear-and-tear as natural teeth. Well-placed and cared for dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime.”