Implant Crown Care
Congratulations on your decision to invest in your smile! To ensure optimal oral health and longevity of your new smile, please adhere to the following recommendations:
Brushing:
• Brush twice daily for at least two minutes using a mechanical or ultrasonic toothbrush, such as a Sonicare or Oral B.
• Most electric toothbrushes have a built-in timer to assist you in brushing for the recommended duration.
• Warm your toothbrush with hot water to soften the bristles before use.
Flossing:
• Floss once daily under your implant crown and around your implant.
• Use Super Floss, a specialized floss designed for implants, to insert under and between each implant area.
• Wrap the floss around each implant and move it up and down to loosen and remove food particles and bacteria.
• Use a new section of floss for each implant.
• Consider using a Water Floss machine as recommended to maintain healthy gum tissues.
• Gently massage your gums twice daily for optimal results.
• Waterpik and Sonicare Air Floss can be effective tools to reach "hard-to-reach" areas under your implants.
Rinses:
• Begin rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater rinses (one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) the day following your procedure.
• Continue rinsing with the saltwater mixture approximately three to four times daily over the next few days, especially after meals.
• Avoid rinses or dental dentifrices containing hydrogen peroxide, as they can react with the titanium and discolor your restorations.
Occlusal Guards:
Clenching and grinding can generate significant pressure across the teeth, ranging from 100 to 600 psi (pounds per square inch). This excessive force can lead to various gum and jaw-related issues.
In contrast to natural teeth, which exhibit some flexibility during normal chewing, dental implants are permanently fused to the jawbone. This consideration is crucial if you are aware or have been diagnosed with bruxism (teeth clenching or grinding). Bruxism involving implants can lead to damage to the opposing teeth.
To protect your teeth from potential harm, it may be beneficial to create an occlusal guard, also known as a night guard. This appliance is custom-made based on dental models of your teeth and constructed from rigid plastic. It prevents the teeth from colliding during sleep, thereby reducing the risk of cracks, fractures, and excessive wear. Additionally, the occlusal guard serves as a guide for your jaw, allowing muscles to relax and mitigating the occurrence of bite-related bruxism.
Follow-ups
Regular dental check-ups and follow-ups are essential for maintaining the health of your implants. These appointments are scheduled every six months and are complimentary. The purpose of these check-ups is to identify any potential complications or oral-related issues that may arise after a more extensive procedure.
Important Note:
Regular follow-ups are mandatory for maintaining your oral health. Please schedule a mandatory check-up within 72 hours of completing your treatment.
