People undergo dental implants and bridges not just to replace missing teeth but also to restore functionality, aesthetics, and health of the mouth. To maintain a lifetime of healthy smiles with your dental implants and bridges, use interdental cleaners.
A toothbrush has limitations, but what a toothbrush can’t reach, the interdental cleaners can accomplish. They are dental tools specifically designed to clean the spaces between teeth to remove plaque, food debris, and bacteria resulting in reduced cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Interdental cleaners are highly suitable for people with braces, implants, or dental bridges. The dental professionals can actually recommend the most tailored cleaner for your oral health needs. They may be in the form of brushes, flosses, or picks.
Unlike natural teeth, implants and bridges require more special care because of their structure. The implants themselves are resistant to decay, however, the surrounding gum tissue and bone are still vulnerable to plaque buildup which can result in peri-implantitis gum disease. On the other hand, dental bridges anchor to adjacent teeth where the artificial tooth sits above the gumline, making it challenging to clean underneath and around it. Uncleaned trapped food particles and bacteria can actually make the dental restoration a failure especially if they lead to serious gum inflammation or even bone loss. So, regular use of interdental cleaners can eliminate these issues.
Types of Interdental Cleaners for Implants and Bridges
Interdental brushes are ideal for cleaning around implants and under bridges because they are small and flexible. They come in various small sizes to fit different gaps and are very gentle on gums and restorative materials.
Meanwhile, water flossers provide a gentle, thorough clean without direct contact by using a pressurized stream of water to remove debris and bacteria.
There are also the soft picks which are rubber-tipped tools for cleaning around delicate gum tissue and under bridges without risking damage to the restoration.
Finally, the specialized floss has a stiffened end for threading under bridges or around implant posts, along with a spongy section for thorough cleaning.
Best Practices for Using Interdental Cleaners
Interdental cleaning must be combined with regular brushing and flossing, either after meals or before bedtime, but ideally before brushing. Clean thoroughly but gently using the right size to ensure effective cleaning without causing harm. Of course, don’t forget to ask your dentist for the most appropriate cleaners for your needs.
Benefits of Interdental Cleaning for Restorations
Selecting the right interdental cleaners to remove plaque and bacteria will prevent gum diseases and eventually prolong your implants and bridges’ lifespan. With these, your overall oral health is enhanced.
Final Thoughts
Investing in dental implants and bridges must include their maintenance. Protecting these restorations with the right oral hygiene practices, including the use of interdental cleaners, will really improve your oral health and quality of life. Incorporate these cleaners into your daily oral hygiene routine and experience not just a healthy mouth, but also fresh breath, and a confident smile day after day after day.