Effectively cleaning around dental implants differs from cleaning around the natural teeth. The method which is used to place an implant into the bone and gums is different from how the natural teeth are attached. The materials used to create an implant are also different from that of the natural teeth.
Dental implants are commonly used as a solution for replacing missing teeth. The implant post, which is similar to a screw, serves as the artificial tooth’s root. Next, an artificial crown is connected to the implant. Bridgework and dentures can also be used in this step. This gives the implant an appearance quite similar to the natural teeth. An abutment device is used to connect the implant and the crown. A successful implant heavily depends on the bone fusing to the implant. Most implants are made of titanium, a material which is non-allergenic.
Directly above the bone, the abutment makes contact with the gum tissue. Here it is supported by a connective tissue which includes fibers from collagen, which is a tough material. These fibers run below the surface and parallel to the implant. They end at the very top of the bone and hold the gum tissues snug against the surface of the implant.
With the natural teeth, the root attaches to the bony socket which surrounds it. A periodontal ligament then secures it. The periodontal ligament is made up of tiny fibers that insert into the bone and the root of the tooth. These fibers connect from the tooth into the gum. Unfortunately, implants do not have this same type of attachment. Because the periodontal ligament contains a greater blood vessel supply for transferring nutrients and cells, it can more effectively resist and fight off infection
Just like oral hygiene being critical for maintaining healthy natural teeth, it is also vital in the maintenance of implants. For adequate support, the implants and natural teeth rely on healthy surrounding tissues. Similar to the natural teeth, plaque can collect on the implant crown. As a result, it is important to remove plaque on a daily basis. When biofilm is neglected to be removed, it is possible for an infection called peri-implantitis to develop. Unlike they type of inflammation which can occur around the natural teeth, this type of infection can be catastrophic and result in the loss of bone and or implant failure.
Dental professionals also play an important role in preventing implant infection. There are numerous factors which should be considered when selecting the best instruments to use for professional cleanings. This can include the type of debris which needs to be removed, the location of the debris, and the optimal method for removal.
It is also important that the instruments selected for a professional cleaning do not cause damage to the implant, abutment, or crown. Another important factor is maintaining a polished and smooth implant surface. When there are scratches or damage to the implant, it can collect bacteria more easily. Special cleaning instruments which are called scalers and curettes can be used for cleaning. These instruments are made from a plastic or resin material. Dental professionals are able to use metal instruments on natural teeth as they are more resistant to scratches.
There are also multiple different types of power or ultrasonic instruments which can be used. These devices contain nylon or plastic tips which helps to eliminate the chance of damaging an implant. High-frequency vibrations make these devices effective methods for cleaning implants.