A dental implant does not decay, because it is not made of natural tooth material. The implant is made of titanium metal, and the implant crown can be constructed from a variety of materials, such as porcelain or porcelain-over-metal. As a result, bacterial acids do not damage an implant restoration.

However, if you have dental implants, you still need to brush and floss properly. Here are a few reasons why:

Peri-implantitis

When bacteria become trapped in the gums around a dental implant, peri-implantitis can ensue. The condition is actually a type of gum infection. When left unchecked, peri-implantitis can damage the tissues around an implant, preventing the implant wound from healing properly. In some cases, implant failure can even occur.

To prevent peri-implantitis, it is important to keep the area around a dental implant as free of oral bacteria as possible. Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent a buildup of the microbes that could result in an infection.

Tooth Decay

A dental implant may not be able to decay, but the teeth adjacent to the device can. When an implant is not kept clean, plaque can build up on the device, causing decay in nearby teeth. 

Tooth decay is damage to the tooth enamel from exposure to acids. The acids eat away at the enamel and dissolve minerals that make up the tooth material. Over time, holes form in the teeth, allowing the entry of oral bacteria. 

By brushing and flossing a dental implant, plaque, which includes oral bacteria that release decay-causing acid, can be removed before the acid incites tooth decay. The area between a dental implant and a natural tooth should receive particular focus during teeth-cleaning sessions. 

Gum Disease

Gum disease usually begins as the inflammation of the gingival tissues. The condition can progress to a severe form of periodontal disease called periodontitis. 

Periodontitis is associated with tooth and bone loss. The dental implant, like the roots of the natural teeth, is positioned in the bone of the jaw. Thus, even a dental implant may be lost if periodontitis develops. 

Brushing and flossing can help keep the gums in optimal health to lessen the likelihood of periodontal disease. Special attention should be given to the gums and teeth during brushing and flossing sessions if signs of gum disease, such as bleeding, redness, or swelling, occurs.

For more information about brushing and flossing after a dental implant restoration, schedule a consultation with an implant dentist, like one from Gallery Dental, in your area.