How to Clean a Dental Crown on an Implant

Cleaning teeth is essential, even when it comes to a dental crown. Although implants replace a person’s permanent teeth, they still require proper care. Today, the number of people choosing dental implants is on the rise. Considering how beneficial this option is, it makes sense.
What is a dental implant?
For this, a dentist or oral surgeon inserts a titanium screw into the jawbone of the patient. Once healed, a replacement tooth attaches on top. When firmly in place, dental implants look and feel just like real teeth. An implant with a dental crown is a great option whether missing one tooth, several or all of them.
What is a dental crown?
The dental crown is the tooth placed on the titanium screw. The difference between this and a standard crown is that it becomes a part of the overall implant. Usually, the crown is permanent, meaning the patient cannot remove it. However, there are also overdentures that a person can take out to clean.
Keeping a dental crown clean and void of any debris will help extend the life span of the entire implant. Just like regular teeth, crowns are prone to developing plaque and bacteria. If not addressed, these can cause an infection in the soft tissue. The problem is that an infection could cause the implant to fail. The goal is to remove all biofilm so that peri-implantitis does not develop.
Along with brushing and flossing a dental crown at home, an individual should go to the dentist for regular cleanings. Hygienists have the experience and training required to work on crowns as part of an implant. Instead of using the same tools when cleaning natural teeth, dental assistants rely on other devices. Made of either resin or plastic, these do not cause abrasions. Overall, hygienists clean the dental crown but without risk of any damage.
Keeping a dental crown clean
Patients with a dental crown as part of an implant should use a soft-bristled toothbrush no less than twice a day. As for the type of toothpaste, it is important to select a non-abrasive formula. The individual needs to brush around and under the dental crown as much as possible. Flossing is also critical. However, it is crucial to only use unwaxed tape made specifically for implants. For hard-to-reach areas, the individual can buy a nylon-coated interdental brush.
Caring for overdentures
For someone with overdentures, they need to remove them daily. While out, the individual should soak them in a cleaner made for this purpose and according to the instructions. It is also important to inspect the O-rings, clips and locator caps. If one of these is missing or damaged, the individual needs to contact the dentist right away. Using a denture brush helps to reach the underside. Before putting the dentures back in place, the person should rinse them thoroughly with water.
Overcoming challenges
A dental crown as part of an implant is somewhat more challenging to clean than natural teeth. However, following a regime as outlined above, the process is easy and highly effective. Of course, if an individual has any issues, they can reach out to a dentist for advice. Sometimes, proper cleaning is only a matter of choosing a different brush or tool.
Keep your smile beautiful and fresh
The way a dental crown fits over an implant is nothing less than remarkable. Thanks to advances in technology, people can achieve beautiful smiles in ways never thought possible. Regardless if you have a temporary or permanent dental crown, it is imperative that you keep it clean. Avoiding problems will help the implant last a long time.
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