A dental implant abutment is made from titanium and the replacement tooth is made from either porcelain, gold or base metal alloys. While these things are not subject to the dangers of bacteria and tooth decay, they are still susceptible to chronic gum disease. As a result, your implant will need to be included in your daily oral hygiene routine.
Plaque and residual food particles that are not removed from the base of your teeth can harden into tartar near the gumline. This promotes gum disease, which can, in time, compromise the abutments that are anchoring the implant to your jaw.
Once you are done brushing your teeth, you should floss between each tooth and along the gumline. If you’re having trouble working floss around the dental implant, you might want to try using a waxed variety. The waxy coating helps it slip into tight places without the risk of snapping it into your gums and injuring them.
The regular dental checkup with your dentist, Dr. Mark P. Swensen and Dr. Haslam, includes a cleaning treatment that will remove any residual hardened tartar. It will also allow your dentist to monitor the implant and the health of your gums.
If you have questions about the best way to maintain your new dental implant in Corvallis, Oregon, you can always call North Point Dental Group, LLC at 541-754-4017 to seek further advice.