Protect Your Implant Investment
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, but they require specialised care to stay healthy. Our implant hygiene protocols use specific instruments and techniques to clean around your implants safely and effectively, protecting them from peri-implantitis and ensuring long-term success.
Why Implants Need Special Care
While implants cannot get cavities, the tissues around them are susceptible to bacterial infection. The implant surface has a different texture than natural teeth, and using regular scaling instruments can scratch it, creating areas where bacteria can accumulate. Our specialised protocols address these unique needs.
Our Implant Hygiene Protocol
Assessment
We probe around your implant to check pocket depths, assess for bleeding or inflammation, and compare to previous measurements. X-rays may be taken periodically to monitor bone levels.
Specialised Cleaning
We use implant-safe instruments including plastic scalers, titanium-tipped curettes, and ultrasonic tips specifically designed for implant surfaces. These remove deposits without scratching the titanium.
Airflow Treatment
Gentle Airflow with erythritol powder effectively removes biofilm from implant surfaces and hard-to-reach areas without any risk of surface damage.
Home Care Review
We assess your cleaning technique and recommend the best tools for your specific implant restoration – whether that is special interdental brushes, a water flosser, or specific brush heads.
Recommended Frequency
| Patient Type | Recommended Interval |
|---|---|
| Low risk, excellent home care | Every 6 months |
| Average risk | Every 4 months |
| History of peri-implantitis or gum disease | Every 3 months |
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Home Care for Implants
- Brush carefully – Use a soft brush and low-abrasive toothpaste
- Interdental brushes – Essential for cleaning around implant abutments
- Water flosser – Helps flush bacteria from around implants
- Avoid hard objects – Do not use your implant to bite ice or hard candy
- Report changes – Tell us if you notice bleeding, swelling, or discomfort
Signs of Implant Problems
Contact us promptly if you experience bleeding when cleaning around your implant, swollen or red gums, pus or bad taste, looseness or movement, or pain when chewing. Early intervention prevents serious complications.
Long-Term Success
With proper professional and home care, implants can last a lifetime. Regular hygiene visits catch problems early when they are easiest to treat. Investing in maintenance protects the much larger investment you made in your implants.