What Is Implant Hygiene?
Implant hygiene refers to the specialised cleaning and care of dental implants, the gums around them, and the surrounding teeth.
Although implants can’t decay like natural teeth, the tissues and bone supporting them are still vulnerable to plaque and bacteria. Without proper care, this can lead to inflammation, infection, or even implant failure.
Regular implant hygiene appointments with your dental hygienist are essential to keep your implants — and your smile — healthy for years to come.
Why It’s Important
Even with excellent brushing at home, plaque and bacteria can accumulate around implants where the gum meets the crown or bridge. If not removed, this can lead to:
- Peri-implant mucositis: Inflammation of the gum tissue around the implant (similar to gingivitis).
- Peri-implantitis: A more advanced infection that affects the bone supporting the implant.
Implant hygiene visits help to prevent these conditions, protecting the health and stability of your implants.
Benefits of Regular Implant Hygiene
- Prevents infection and inflammation around the implant.
- Maintains healthy gums and bone supporting your implant.
- Extends the lifespan of your implant restoration.
- Keeps your mouth feeling clean and fresh.
- Protects your investment in long-term oral health.
What to Expect at an Implant Hygiene Appointment
- Assessment and Monitoring
- Your hygienist will carefully examine your implants, surrounding gums, and natural teeth.
- Pocket depths may be measured to monitor the health of the tissues around each implant.
- Any early signs of inflammation or infection will be identified and discussed.
- Your hygienist will carefully examine your implants, surrounding gums, and natural teeth.
- Professional Cleaning
- The hygienist will gently remove plaque, biofilm, and soft deposits from around the implant using special, non-metal instruments that are safe for implant surfaces.
- Air polishing with a fine, implant-safe powder (such as glycine or erythritol) may be used to gently clean both above and below the gum line.
- If any hard deposits (calculus) are present, these will be removed carefully to avoid scratching the implant surface
- The hygienist will gently remove plaque, biofilm, and soft deposits from around the implant using special, non-metal instruments that are safe for implant surfaces.
3. Personalised Home Care Advice
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- Your hygienist will demonstrate the best ways to clean around your implants at home, including:
- Using interdental brushes designed for implants
- Flossing aids or water flossers
- Recommended toothpastes or mouth rinses
- Using interdental brushes designed for implants
- They’ll also review your current routine and make sure you have the right tools and techniques for effective daily care.
- Your hygienist will demonstrate the best ways to clean around your implants at home, including:
4. Maintenance Plan
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- Most patients are advised to see their hygienist every 3–6 months for ongoing maintenance.
- The frequency will depend on your individual needs and implant health.
- Most patients are advised to see their hygienist every 3–6 months for ongoing maintenance.
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After Your Appointment
- You can resume normal activities straight away.
- Your mouth will feel clean, refreshed, and healthy.
- Ongoing home care and regular hygiene visits will help ensure your implants remain strong and healthy long-term.
Implant hygiene is a vital part of caring for your dental implants. Regular professional cleaning and good home care prevent infection, protect the supporting bone and gums, and help your implants last a lifetime. With the right care, you can enjoy a confident, healthy smile for many years to come.
FAQ
Do dental implants need special cleaning?
Yes, they should be cleaned regularly to prevent gum inflammation or bone loss around the implant.
Can I use a normal toothbrush on my implants?
You can, but we’ll also recommend specialist brushes or floss designed for implants.
How often should implants be checked?
Every three to six months, depending on your oral health and implant history.
Why Us?
At Imperial Dental Care, your smile is our priority. We pair clinical expertise with modern technology to provide dentistry that feels personal, comfortable, and reassuring. Every treatment plan is tailored to you — never rushed and never one-size-fits-all.
Our team is hand-picked for both skill and genuine care. We believe great dentistry is built on trust, empathy, and clear communication. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by professionals who listen, respect your concerns, and make your experience smooth and stress-free.
We don’t just treat teeth — we care for people.
Your comfort, confidence, and wellbeing matter here.