Dental implants permanently replace natural teeth. Just like natural teeth, implants need regular cleaning to keep them in good condition. Without the necessary care, an infection known as peri-implantitis can attack the gums and bone that support your implants, which can ultimately lead to loss of your implant. Use these six tips to keep your implants clean and healthy.

1. Brush Twice a Day

You need to brush your dental implants twice a day to clean away plaque. For many people, a manual toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles can clean dental implants effectively, but people who struggle with dexterity in their hands may find an electric brush to be easier to use.

2. Use a Suitable Toothpaste

The best toothpaste to use on dental implants is a low-abrasive toothpaste with tartar control. Look for non-whitening toothpastes, as some whitening pastes contain abrasive materials that can dull the shine of the implant surface. Toothpaste with tartar control prevents plaque from hardening into tartar, which can irritate gums and is very difficult to remove at home.

3. Floss Every Day

Use dental floss to clean around the abutment parts of your dental implants every day. If you find it difficult to floss between some of your implants, you can use a specialist implant brush or interdental brush instead. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist about these products.

4. Use Disclosing Tablets to Show Plaque

Plaque disclosing tablets show plaque that has been left behind after brushing and flossing. Chew a tablet so that it mixes with your saliva and then swish the saliva around for 30 seconds before spitting it out. The tablet will temporarily dye the plaque so you can easily see it on your teeth or dental implants. Use your toothbrush or an interdental brush to remove the plaque before it turns into tartar.

5. Have Regular Cleanings and Checkups

See your dental hygienist or therapist for a professional teeth cleaning once every three months. In addition, you should see your dentist at least once a year to check that your implants, gums and bones are healthy.

6. Know the Signs of Peri-Implantitis

The first signs of peri-implantitis are redness, soreness and tenderness around the gums that support your implants. You may also notice bleeding, pus or bad breath. If you notice any of these symptoms, book a checkup with your dentist to find out if an infection is starting to develop.