Can You Use Floss and Waterpik Dental Implants?

The long and short answer is yes, you can and should use floss and a Waterpik even if you have dental implants but you need to do it the right way to protect the surrounding tissue and the longevity of the implant.

Flossing Around Dental Implants

You need to be careful when flossing because regular string floss isn’t always ideal around implants especially if you’re not using the right techniques. Traditional floss can irritate the gums if it’s snapped down or dragged too aggressively around the implant crown.

What to Use Instead

• Implant-safe floss (unwaxed tape) specifically made for implants.
• Use Super Floss to clean around implants and supported dentures.
• Soft picks or rubber-tipped gum stimulators.

For bridges or implant-supported dentures a floss threader can make it easier to guide the floss under the restoration. Simply thread it through your teeth gently slide the floss in a C-shape around each implant abutment and move it up and down without snapping it.

Aim to floss at least once a day after brushing. if you notice bleeding ease up on the pressure you’re using. The goal is to clean around the base of the crown where plaque collects without damaging or irritating the soft tissue that protects the implant.

Using a Waterpik with Dental Implants

Water flossers are great for cleaning teeth and recommended by implant specialists. They’re ideal for flushing out debris from under implant crowns, around abutments, and under implant-supported bridges.

How to use a water-flosser

• Always use the lowest pressure setting.
• Use lukewarm water.
• Use the specialized soft-bristle tip.
• Angle the tip gently along the gum-line and not directly into pockets.
• Pause for 3to 5 seconds per area.
• Use daily to help prevent gum infections around implant.

Some Waterpik models even come with a special tip that features a soft rubber nozzle designed for gentle cleaning when used with the low pressure setting.

How Often Should I Get Professional Teeth Cleanings?

For implants, it’s wise to get professional cleanings every 3 to 6 months depending on your risk factors which your dentist would explain to you. They may need to use ultrasonic tools for deeper plaque removal around implants.

Keeping Your Implants Clean is Non-Negotiable

Even though dental implants can’t get cavities, the tissue around them is still vulnerable to inflammation and bone loss if proper hygiene is not practiced. The bottom line is that poor hygiene can lead to implant failure over time so regular flossing and tooth irrigation is always in your best interest.

If you’re unsure about what products to use, ask your hygienist or dentist who will be more than happy to help you. If you live in Brantford, you can call our dental office with any of your questions.