Implant Care and Maintenance

An implant can lose attachment to the bone, even after it has successfully fused to it. Here are two ways your implant could lose attachment to the bone and what you can do keep your implants intact:

• Poor oral hygiene

Brushing, flossing, and scheduling regular dental cleanings to maintain your implant is essential. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a bacterial infection called peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis threatens the quality of the soft tissue and bone supporting the implant. If you notice redness and swelling around your implant, or if your implant is loose, you should see your healthcare provider immediately.

• Excessive biting forces

If you clench or grind your teeth, you might need a nightguard to protect and implant them. Nightguards are made with soft, flexible material that absorbs the impact of the clenching and grinding to protect your teeth and implant.

Sometimes, you might need more implants to handle the forces generated by biting and chewing. Your healthcare provider will measure your bite force and determine the best number of implants for you and the best implant diameter and length.