All-on-four dental implants can replace a complete arch of teeth using just four dental implants. A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically implanted into the jaw. A crown can be attached to an implant to replace one tooth, or a bridge can be attached to multiple implants to replace some or all of the teeth in the upper or lower arch.
If you’ve received All-on-four dental implants, one of the most common questions is how to clean them. Here are the best ways to keep your All-on-four restoration clean for a healthy mouth.
Toothbrush
All-on-four restorations are typically permanent, meaning once it is attached to the implants, it stays in place until your dentist removes it. This means you can brush them as you would your natural teeth. Use a soft bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to remove food particles without scratching your dentures. An electric toothbrush is even more effective at removing food and plaque from your restoration.
Waterpik
A waterpik is a dental tool you can purchase to use at home. It forcibly sprays water to remove food and plaque from the surface and in between your teeth. Waterpiks include wands with varying tips that can fit between your teeth and get under dentures and bridges. The water sprays through a hole in the tip of each tool. You can mix mouthwash and water together in the reservoir for best results and fresher breath.
Super Floss
Super floss is a variation on traditional string floss. One end is reinforced (similar to a shoestring) to make it easier to thread under bridges and dentures. Super floss is also thicker than traditional string floss, making it more effective in places such as large gaps between the teeth and the spaces between the gums and bridges or dentures.
Proxy Toothbrush
A proxy toothbrush is a small round brush that is specially designed to get into hard to reach places, such as beneath bridges and dentures.
Soft Picks
A soft pick is made of plastic with a narrow end that can fit between your teeth or under bridges and dentures.
Mouthwash
Rinsing your mouth daily with mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria buildup underneath your bridge or denture. You’ll also avoid odors that can develop when bacteria settles into the tight spaces between your gums and your restoration.
Brush the Soft Tissues of Your Mouth
In addition to your teeth, both natural and artificial, you should brush your tongue, the roof of your mouth, and the inside of your cheeks and lips. This helps to remove bacteria that leads to gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Brushing is the best way to reach the small folds and creases in the soft tissues of your mouth.
Go to the Dentist for Regular Cleanings
Dentists recommend dental cleanings and exams every 6 months. This allows your dentist to more thoroughly clean your All-on-four restoration periodically.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean Under Your Fixed Bridge or Dentures?
Cleaning under an All-on-four restoration is important for your oral health. One of the most common conditions that can develop from inadequate cleaning is gum disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue caused by left behind food that encourages bacteria growth. When bacteria are not removed they can become overpopulated and infect the gum tissue.
Aurora Dental Provides All-on-4 Dental Implants
If you’re in need of replacement for all of the teeth in your upper or lower arch, Aurora Dental provides All-on-four dental implants. In most cases with this procedure your implants can be placed as well as your permanent restoration in just one appointment.
Call 330-562-3400 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment.