Dental implants are one of the most successful and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. Although implants can’t develop cavities like natural teeth, they still require diligent care to keep the surrounding gums and bone healthy. In fact, poor oral hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis, an infection that can threaten the stability of an implant.
Brushing is important, but flossing is equally essential. Here are 4 tips, courtesy of Dr. Craig O’Donoghue of Precision Dentistry of Howard to help you floss effectively and protect your dental implants for years to come.
1. Don’t Skip Flossing Because Implants Can’t Get Cavities
One of the biggest misconceptions about dental implants is that they don’t need to be flossed because they can’t decay.
While it’s true that implant materials won’t develop cavities, plaque and bacteria can still accumulate around the implant and along the gumline. If these bacteria aren’t removed regularly, they can cause inflammation, gum disease, and even bone loss around the implant.
Dr. O’Donoghue recommends daily flossing to help eliminate food particles and plaque from areas that your toothbrush may not reach. Consistent care is one of the best ways to protect the health of your implant and the surrounding tissues.
2. Choose Implant-Friendly Floss
Not all floss products are the same. Depending on the type of implant restoration you have, Dr. O’Donoghue may recommend a specific flossing product.
Options can include:
- Implant-specific floss.
- Unwaxed dental floss.
- Floss threaders.
- Super floss designed for bridges and implants.
These products are often easier to maneuver around implants and can help clean hard-to-reach areas beneath implant-supported restorations.
If you’re unsure which product is best, ask your dental team at Precision Dentistry of Howard for a recommendation tailored to your smile.
3. Use a Gentle Technique
When flossing around dental implants, technique matters just as much as consistency, says Dr. O’Donoghue.
Carefully guide the floss between the teeth and around the implant. Rather than snapping the floss into place, gently slide it beneath the gumline and move it up and down along the side of the implant restoration.
The goal is to remove plaque and debris without irritating the gums.
Aggressive flossing won’t provide better results and may cause unnecessary discomfort. A gentle, thorough approach is typically the most effective.
4. Consider Adding a Water Flosser
Many implant patients find that a water flosser is a valuable addition to their oral hygiene routine.
Water flossers use a stream of water to help remove food particles and plaque from around implants, between teeth, and beneath certain restorations. They can be especially helpful for patients with implant-supported bridges or full-arch restorations where traditional flossing may be more challenging.
While a water flosser should not replace regular brushing and flossing unless directed by your dentist, it can provide an extra level of cleaning and support healthier gums.
Dental implants are designed to last for many years, but their longevity depends on proper care. Flossing daily helps reduce plaque buildup, supports healthy gums, and protects the bone that holds your implant in place. A few minutes of flossing each day can make a big difference in preserving your smile.
About the Author
Dr. O’Donoghue has more than 25 years of experience practicing dentistry. Throughout his career, he has taken thousands of hours of continuing education, including completing the curriculum at the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute. He’s highly experienced in implant placement and restorations, holds an IV sedation license, and has completed extensive training in TMJ therapy and cosmetic dentistry. Interested in replacing your missing teeth with dental implants? If so, head to our website to schedule an appointment or call our Green Bay office at (920) 305-0607.