Do I Have to Brush My Fake Teeth? How to Care for Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most advanced and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. At Montevallo Family Dentistry, Dr. Bobby Shunnarah often hears the question from implant patients: “Do I still need to brush my fake teeth?” The answer is a resounding yes—and here’s why.

Even though dental implants aren’t natural teeth, they still require daily care. Proper brushing, flossing, and professional maintenance are essential to keeping your implants strong and your mouth healthy.

What Are Dental Implants, Really?

Dental implants are not just "fake teeth" in the sense of removable dentures or cosmetic veneers. They are permanent tooth replacements designed to replicate the entire tooth structure—from root to crown. A dental implant consists of three main parts:

• Titanium Post: Surgically placed into the jawbone to mimic the tooth root
• Abutment: A connector between the implant and the crown
• Crown: The visible part that looks and functions like a real tooth

Because the implant is anchored into your jaw, it not only restores chewing function but also helps preserve bone density—something removable prosthetics can’t do.

Why You Still Need to Brush

Your dental implant crown may be immune to cavities, but that doesn’t make it maintenance-free. Here’s why you must brush your implant (and the surrounding areas):

1. Prevent Peri-Implantitis

This is a condition similar to gum disease, where bacteria attack the tissues around the implant. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, peri-implantitis affects up to 20% of dental implant patients and can lead to bone loss and even implant failure if left untreated.

2. Protect Adjacent Natural Teeth

If you have other natural teeth, poor oral hygiene around your implant can lead to plaque buildup and cavities elsewhere in your mouth.

3. Maintain Gum Health

Even though the implant itself can’t decay, your gums can still become inflamed, infected, or recede due to plaque and bacteria.

“Oral hygiene is just as critical for dental implants as it is for natural teeth,” says the American Dental Association. “Good habits are the key to long-term success.”

How to Care for Dental Implants at Home

Taking care of your dental implants doesn’t require anything extreme—it’s mostly about consistency and using the right techniques.

Brush Twice a Day

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your implant crown and gumline. Electric toothbrushes are especially effective for removing plaque around implants.

Floss Daily

Flossing is crucial, especially around the gumline where food and bacteria can accumulate. Specialized floss, such as implant-specific threaders or super floss, can be more effective than standard floss.

Use an Oral Irrigator

Also known as a water flosser, this tool can help flush out debris and bacteria from around your implant and reduce inflammation in the gums.

Rinse with Antimicrobial Mouthwash

Chlorhexidine or alcohol-free antimicrobial rinses can help reduce bacterial buildup and keep the implant site clean.

Avoid Abrasive Products

Whitening toothpaste or hard bristles can scratch your implant crown or irritate the surrounding gum tissue. Stick to dentist-approved products designed for implant care.

Don’t Skip the Dentist!

Even with impeccable at-home care, routine checkups with Dr. Bobby Shunnarah are essential to ensure your dental implant stays healthy for the long haul.

During your appointment at Montevallo Family Dentistry, we will:

• Take X-rays to check the bone levels around your implant
• Perform a deep cleaning using special tools designed for implants
• Examine the gums for signs of inflammation or infection
• Make adjustments if the crown has shifted or loosened

The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and implant evaluations. If you’ve had gum disease or other risk factors, more frequent visits may be necessary.

Dental Implants Are an Investment—Protect It

A dental implant is one of the most valuable oral health investments you can make. It’s designed to last 20+ years with proper care. However, just like any investment, it requires maintenance. Skipping daily brushing or neglecting your routine appointments can put you at risk for implant failure.

According to a study in the International Journal of Implant Dentistry, lack of proper hygiene is a leading cause of implant complications, especially in the first few years after placement.

What If You Already Have Issues?

If your dental implant feels loose, your gums are swollen, or you notice bleeding when brushing, don’t wait. These could be early signs of peri-implantitis or mechanical issues with the implant itself. At Montevallo Family Dentistry, we use advanced digital imaging to detect problems early and provide minimally invasive solutions to get your oral health back on track.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brushing Dental Implants

• Can dental implants get cavities? No, the implant crown is not susceptible to cavities. However, the gums and bone supporting it can still become infected.
• Do I need a special toothbrush for implants? A soft-bristled brush or an electric toothbrush is recommended. Some patients benefit from implant-specific brushes with angled bristles.
• Can I use mouthwash with a dental implant? Yes, but choose a non-alcoholic or antimicrobial rinse that won’t dry out your mouth or irritate the gums.
• What happens if I don’t brush my implant? You risk developing peri-implantitis, which can lead to gum inflammation, bone loss, and implant failure over time.
• Are dental implants high maintenance? Not at all—with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, implants are easy to maintain and can last for decades.

Keep Your Implant—and Your Smile—Healthy in Montevallo

At Montevallo Family Dentistry, we believe your smile deserves long-term protection. Whether you’ve had your dental implant for years or just had one placed, Dr. Bobby Shunnarah and our caring team are here to help you keep it clean, healthy, and looking its best.

Ready for your next implant checkup? Schedule a visit with Montevallo Family Dentistry today and let us help you protect your investment in a healthy smile.

Posted on behalf of Montevallo Family Dentistry