How to Floss Dental Implants

Written by Dr. Brian Harris

October 03, 2024

How to floss dental implants is something many people overlook, but it's key to keeping them and the surrounding teeth clean.

In this article, we'll cover how to floss dental implants correctly, whether you should floss them daily, and explore water flossers as a gentler alternative. You'll also learn helpful tips for keeping your implants in top shape long term.

Whether you want to read about how to floss for kids or how to floss 1 year old teeth, we've got you covered.

Let's take a look at how to keep your implants healthy with simple flossing techniques.

What this article covers:

How to Floss Dental Implants

Flossing dental implants is essential for removing debris that can cause gum disease and implant failure. Start by using implant-friendly floss, like unwaxed or dental tape, to avoid damaging the surrounding tissue.

Gently insert the floss between the implant and gumline, wrapping it in a C-shape around the implant. This ensures you clean both sides effectively. Make sure to clean all contact points.

floss an implant

Regular flossing—ideally once per day—helps prevent bacteria buildup and supports long-term implant health. Upgrade your flossing routine with SNOW's Activated Charcoal Whitening Floss.

Made with bamboo fibers and activated charcoal, it naturally whitens while removing bacteria and food particles. Its expanding fibers gently clean between implants, and the refreshing peppermint flavor leaves your mouth feeling fresh and clean.

Should You Floss Your Dental Implants?

Based on our observations, you should. Flossing dental implants is crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of both the implants and the surrounding gum tissue.

Dental implants may not be susceptible to cavities like natural teeth, but plaque can still accumulate in the crevices between implants and gums. If left unchecked, this plaque buildup can lead to peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition similar to gum disease that can cause implant failure.

how to floss dental implants

Our research indicates that, by flossing regularly, you remove plaque and food particles that could lead to infections. Neglecting to floss could result in inflammation and costly complications.

For added convenience and teeth whitening, try SNOW's Charcoal Whitening Floss Picks. These picks glide easily between your implants, using activated charcoal to remove surface stains and clean hard-to-reach areas.

Water Flossers Offer an Alternative

For individuals who find traditional flossing challenging, water flossers provide a highly effective alternative. These devices use a targeted stream of water to clean around dental implants, reaching areas that regular floss might miss.

Water flossers are especially beneficial for those with sensitive gums or multiple implants, as the gentle water pressure minimizes the risk of irritating the gumline while effectively removing plaque and food particles.

They are the key tool used in methods pertaining to how to floss back teeth and how to floss a bridge.

Our findings show that using a water flosser is straightforward. Direct the water jet between the implant and gumline, moving the tip gently along the contours of the implant to ensure thorough cleaning.

how to floss a dental implant

SNOW's Water Flosser is perfect for deep cleaning around implants. It features customizable pressure settings (pulse, normal, and soft) and an 8 oz water tank, offering up to 70 uses per charge.

Plus, the antibacterial treatment and USB-C charger make it a travel-friendly, hygienic option for keeping your implants in top shape.

Conclusion

Flossing dental implants might feel unnecessary, but it plays a huge role in keeping them free from plaque and bacteria. Consistent flossing helps you avoid inflammation and maintain the health of both your implants and gums.

We've gone over the importance of flossing your implants, explored how water flossers can make the process easier, and provided tips to make sure you do it right.

Take your oral care up a notch with SNOW's range of products. Visit our website and browse our collection today!

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