How to Clean Dental Implants Properly

Cleaning dental implants is just as important as caring for natural teeth — if not more.
Unlike dentures, implants are fixed and non-removable, which means daily maintenance is essential to prevent complications like infection, gum inflammation, or even implant failure.

At Oldbury Smile Spa, we educate all implant patients on correct oral hygiene routines post-treatment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to keep your dental implants clean and healthy for years to come.

Why Implant Cleaning Matters

Dental implants may be artificial, but the gums and bone around them are not. Poor hygiene can lead to peri-implant mucositis (early gum inflammation) and peri-implantitis (advanced bone infection), both of which can compromise the longevity of your implant.

Key goals of implant cleaning:

Remove plaque and food particles
Prevent inflammation or gum disease
Protect the bone structure surrounding the implant
Prolong implant lifespan (15+ years with proper care)

Daily Cleaning Routine for Dental Implants

1. Brush Twice a Day

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. Brush gently around the implant crown and gum line using circular motions.

Tip: Avoid hard-bristle brushes or abrasive toothpaste — these can damage the gum tissue.

2. Floss or Use Interdental Brushes

Cleaning between the implant and adjacent teeth is crucial. Use:

Implant-specific floss

Water flossers (oral irrigators)

Interdental brushes (choose soft, flexible options)

These tools remove plaque where a toothbrush can’t reach.

3. Rinse with an Antibacterial Mouthwash

Rinse daily with a non-alcoholic antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria and keep the gum tissue healthy.

4. Clean the Underside of Implant-Supported Bridges or Dentures

If you have All-on-4 or implant-retained dentures, use super floss, water flossers, or specialised brushes to clean under the bridge or bar attachment.

Ask your Oldbury implant dentist to demonstrate the correct method for your prosthetic.

Is It Important to Have Dental Implants Professionally Cleaned?

Absolutely — professional cleaning is essential for the long-term success of your dental implants.
Even with excellent at-home hygiene, there are areas around the implant that only a dental professional can properly clean and assess.

At Oldbury Smile Spa, we recommend regular maintenance visits to keep your implants — and the tissues supporting them — in optimal health.

What to Expect During a Dental Implant Maintenance Visit:

Hygiene checks every 3–6 months to remove any plaque or calculus around the implant
Specialised instruments that clean without scratching the implant surface
X-rays when needed to monitor the bone and ensure the implant is stable
Early detection of any inflammation or complications like peri-implantitis

Our team uses advanced tools and gentle techniques to keep your implants secure, functional and infection-free.

Common Mistakes to Avoid at Home

Even the best brushing routine can fall short if you’re unaware of these common issues:

Skipping flossing or interdental cleaning
Using standard string floss under bridges (it can fray and trap debris)
Smoking, which slows healing and increases risk of implant failure
Ignoring signs of infection like bleeding gums or swelling

If you notice discomfort, redness, or any changes around your implant, don’t wait — book a check-up with your Oldbury dentist as soon as possible.

Implant Cleaning for Long-Term Success

Just like natural teeth, dental implants rely on healthy gums and bone to stay secure.
Consistent cleaning habits, the right tools and regular dental reviews will protect your investment and oral health long-term.

Protect Your Smile with Proper Implant Care

Dental implants are designed to last — but only if they’re cared for properly.
With the right daily hygiene routine and professional support from our team, your implants can stay clean, healthy and functional for decades.

📞 Ready to optimise your implant care?

Book a hygiene appointment with Oldbury Smile Spa and get expert guidance tailored to your dental implants.