How to Care for Implants

Posted on 7/1/2026 by San Tan Oral Surgery

A miniature team of toy construction workers conduct repairs on a transparent dental model with a dental implant, a visual metaphor for dental implant restoration.

Thinking about getting dental implants or already have them? That's great! Implants are a fantastic way to replace missing teeth and give you back a confident smile. But just like natural teeth, implants need proper care to stay healthy and last for many years. This guide will walk you through the best ways to keep your implants in tip-top shape.

Daily Oral Hygiene

The foundation of implant care is a solid daily oral hygiene routine. This means brushing and flossing, just like you would with your natural teeth, but with a few important tweaks.

•	Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush at least twice a day, morning and night. Be gentle around the implant area. Don't scrub too hard, as this can irritate the gums. Electric toothbrushes can be helpful, but make sure they have a soft setting.
•	Flossing: Flossing around implants can be a little tricky. You'll want to use floss specifically designed for implants, which is often thicker and has a spongy texture. Gently slide the floss between the implant and your gums, being careful not to snag. You can also use a floss threader to help get the floss into those hard-to-reach spots.
•	Interdental Brushes: These small, cone-shaped brushes are excellent for cleaning between implants and around the abutment (the part that connects the implant to the crown). Your dentist or hygienist can show you the best way to use them.

Rinsing is Key

Adding a mouth rinse to your daily routine can further protect your implants.

•	Antimicrobial Mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation in the gums around the implant. Look for a mouthwash that doesn't contain alcohol, as alcohol can dry out your mouth.
•	Saltwater Rinse: A simple saltwater rinse can also be very effective at promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse gently for 30 seconds.

Regular Check-Ups

Regular visits to your dentist or oral surgeon are essential for maintaining your implant's health.

•	Professional Cleaning: Your dental hygienist has specialized tools to clean around implants and remove plaque and tartar that you can't reach at home.
•	Exam: During your check-up, your dentist will examine your implants to make sure they are stable and that there are no signs of infection or other problems. They may also take X-rays to check the bone around the implant.

Things to Avoid

Certain habits can damage your implants and shorten their lifespan.

•	Smoking: Smoking is terrible for your oral health in general, and it's especially bad for implants. Smoking impairs healing and increases the risk of implant failure.
•	Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Like smoking, excessive alcohol can negatively impact healing and increase the risk of complications.
•	Hard and Sticky Foods: Chewing on hard candies, ice, or sticky foods can put excessive pressure on your implants and potentially damage them.
•	Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth: If you grind or clench your teeth, especially at night, talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard to protect your implants.

Addressing Problems Early

If you notice any problems with your implants, such as pain, swelling, bleeding, or loosening, contact your dentist or oral surgeon right away. Early detection and treatment can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

Taking good care of your dental implants is an investment in your long-term oral health and overall well-being. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your implants stay healthy and functional for many years to come.

About
Dr. Cynthia Colson

Dr. Colson grew up in the Metro area, attending Camelback High School and ASU. She graduated from the University of Kentucky Dental School and completed her residency at Long Island Jewish Hospital in Long Island, New York. She also attended an anesthesia fellowship program at the University of Illinois at Chicago and has traveled with Healing The Children, a non-profit organization, to Bucarumanga Columbia treating patients with cleft lip and palate deformities.
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"Dr. Colson is amazing! She explained everything thoroughly without sounding condescending and gently but directly guides you through the whole procedure. She is excellent and super experienced. I got my wisdom teeth pulled (3 partially impacted and one simply extracted) and aside from asking too many questions under laughing gas before the general anesthesia knocked me out, I got no complications and have had essentially no pain at all." – Ana D.

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Location

3303 S. Lindsay Rd.
Suite 112
Gilbert, AZ 85297

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San Tan Oral Surgery, 3303 S. Lindsay Rd. Suite 112, Gilbert, AZ 85297-2100 - (480) 604-2592 - santanoralsurgery.com - 7/16/2026 - Related Terms: Dental Implants Gilbert AZ -