Cleaning Implant Supported Dentures
Caring For Implant Supported Dentures
Implant supported dentures, just like regular teeth, must be cleaned daily. To properly clean implant supported dentures, all detachable components should be removed. Once removed, clean around the components, artificial teeth and gum areas. It is not recommended to sleep with dentures in your mouth. Removing dentures at night helps to prevent infections and other complications.
It is important to clean your implant supported dentures in the morning after breakfast and at night after your last meal. Cleaning in the evening is especially important because your mouth produces less saliva when you sleep and bacteria is not naturally rinsed away.
It is critical to keep the abutments clean. The abutments are the areas where the denture attaches to the implant located in the jaw bone. It is helpful to complete the cleaning in good lighting with a large mirror.
The various stages of cleaning include the following steps:
- Clean the inner and outer sides of all abutment pillars and surrounding gums with short horizontal movements.
- Clean the rear side of the backmost teeth on both sides with short horizontal movements.
- Clean all spaces with gaps on either side of the abutment pillars and the gaps between the root tips of the denture or bridge with a proxabrush. This brush should fit through the rinsing space with some resistance. Push the brush through the space multiple times at different angles.
- While placing the toothbrush against the gum, make a dragging-rotating motion up to the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Work in small sections throughout the mouth. On the inner side of the front teeth, hold the brush vertically and drawn up vertically towards the biting edges of the teeth. Hold the brush as horizontally, if possible.
- In the areas where the bridge, denture or bar touches the gum tissue, floss back and forth several times. A threader should be used to get the floss in the rinsing spaces.
- Complete the cleaning by rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water.
It is important to follow these instructions and find a routine that works well for you. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in caring for your implant supported dentures and ensuring they last as long as possible.
Professional Maintenance and Care
Visits to the dentist to help ensure dentures and implants are well maintained. Regular office visits will include a thorough examination to check the health of your gums and mouth tissues. The exam will also ensure your dentures fit comfortably. X-rays may occasionally be taken to allow your dentist to confirm that implants, abutments, and attachments are positioned correctly. Clips and other attachments can show signs of wear and are typically replaced annually or bi-annually.
What You Can Expect from Your Implant supported Dentures
With the proper care and maintenance, your implant supported dentures can last for many years without any issues. Implant supported dentures are significantly more stable than traditional dentures. It is important to be conscious of your diet as extremely hard or sticky foods can damage the dentures. Visit your dentist regularly and contact the office immediately if there are any issues or gum irritation caused by the dentures. Sore spots caused by dentures and bite problems can be easily corrected. Your implant supported dentures should be comfortable, attractive and functional.
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Dr. Alkakhan
Dr. Waleed completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining advanced clinical training in surgical treatments. His thirst for expertise led him to specialize in Periodontics and Implant Surgery at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). At MUSC, he served as Chief Resident of Periodontics and conducted groundbreaking research on macrophage plasticity during periodontal inflammation, earning a second Master's of Science degree.
Dr. Daru
In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.
Dr. Fields
Dr. Fields, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, embarked on his dental journey at Georgetown College, where he earned a B.S. degree in biology/chemistry. He then pursued his passion for dentistry, graduating with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from the University of Louisville in 1989. Additionally, he earned the prestigious Ma.C.S.D. degree, specializing in IV conscious sedation, showcasing his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge for the benefit of his patients.
Dr. Gupta
Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.
Dr. Lakkis
Dr. Dima Lakkis earned her DDS with honors in 2006 and completed her Periodontics training and Master of Science at Case Western Reserve. She is Board Certified and a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Lakkis provides a full range of periodontal and implant treatments, with advanced training in cosmetic procedures. She is an active member of several dental organizations and has published in the Journal of Periodontology on the link between periodontal and systemic health.
Dr. Zalewsky
Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.