Dental Implant Maintenance
February 20, 2026
Simple Steps to Protect Your Smile
Dental implants are designed to be strong and long-lasting. With the right care, many can serve you well for decades. The good news is that maintenance is simple and can even be incorporated into daily routines. At Spaulding Dental Co., many patients, especially older adults, are pleasantly surprised by how manageable implant care can be.
Why Maintenance Matters
A dental implant will not get cavities, but its supporting tissues will require maintenance and care. The buildup of plaque around an implant may cause irritation or infection if not regularly removed. Good home maintenance and regular visits will help ensure that your implant remains firmly in place and that your gums remain healthy.
Daily Oral Hygiene
Good brushing is an essential tool in maintaining dental implants.
- Brush at least twice daily
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush
- Use non-abrasive toothpaste
Gentle brushing will protect your implant crown from damage and help maintain good health of the tissues that support your implant. Adequate time must be given to brushing and thorough cleaning along the margin of your implant.
Cleaning Around the Implant
Daily cleaning between teeth and implants is essential. Specialized floss, such as spongy or thickened floss is very effective in the cleaning of the areas beneath the crowns or bridges placed on implants. Many patients also benefit from small interdental brushes to clean between implants or in tight spaces.
Dentist-designed Cocofloss removes ~40% more plaque between teeth compared with generic floss picks. Excavate plaque for an incredibly fresh, dentist-level clean every day.
TePe Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular toothbrush is unable to reach. Interdental brushes are the most effective way to remove plaque between the teeth. The wire is plastic coated for safe and gentle cleaning around natural teeth and dental implants.
If you are unsure which tools are best for your smile, Dr. Spaulding’s team can demonstrate simple options that are easy to handle.
Professional Care and Healthy Habits
Even with excellent home care, regular checkups remain important. Most implant patients benefit from visits every 3 to 6 months. This allows the team to monitor the patient’s periodontal health, stability, and the need for periodic X-rays.
A few everyday habits also protect your implants and natural teeth:
- Avoid smoking, which can affect healing and implant stability
- Do not chew ice or use your teeth to open packages
With steady daily care and regular checkups at Spaulding Dental Co., your dental implant can remain strong, comfortable, and natural feeling for many years. If you have any concerns regarding your home care and cleaning tools, Dr. Spaulding and her staff are available for guidance in maintaining your healthy smile.