
Our implant dentist, Dr Harpal Chana, explains how and why you should do this.
Dental implant placements are becoming more common, yet it is still a very sophisticated procedure that requires years of extra training before a dentist is allowed to carry out this procedure.
It is widely considered to be the most effective way of replacing a missing tooth, or teeth, and can provide patients with many years of service, providing a strong and secure artificial tooth.
Despite the above, it is important that our Teddington patients are aware that they will also need to take responsibility for looking after the new implant once it has been placed. Naturally, there will also be follow up appointments at our Elmfield House Dental Practice to make sure that all is well, but everyday responsibility will fall to the implant patient themselves.
Cleaning a new implant
Once your new implant is in place, it is immediately at risk. The area of placement is especially vulnerable and it is very important that you keep it clean. You will not be able to brush the area at this stage and you will need to clean it with a warm (but not hot) saline solution tipped over the area of the implant. You will need to do this a number of times a day for a while. Once the area has healed sufficiently, a soft toothbrush may be gently used. You will also need to gradually introduce dental floss for the reasons explained below.
Why do you need to clean an implant?