HOME CARE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPLANT CARE

Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes have been shown to disrupt biofilm better than a manual brush due to
the ability generate more brush strokes than the human hand. Regardless of the toothbrush
of choice, patients should be advised to brush for a full two minutes with a soft bristle brush.
End tuft brushes are also great for those hard-to-reach areas or for reaching around the
sometimes bulky contours of implant crowns.

Interproximal aids
Water flossers have been shown to disrupt bacteria in pocket depths measuring up to 6 mm
deep; however, this is a technique-sensitive approach to interproximal care. Patients need
to be educated about proper techniques and should be advised to use water flossers on a
low-pressure setting. Some other recommendations for interproximal cleaning include
products that promote gingival stimulation such as soft picks, rubber tip stimulators, and
proximal brushes with plastic wires. When recommending dental floss, be sure to select a
type that does not shred or leave particles behind, as this may contribute to implantitis.

Dentifrice and over-the-counter mouthwash

As previously stated, the mechanical action that is achieved with a toothbrush and
interproximal cleaners are ideal for the disruption of slimy biofilm, a fact that must be
stressed to patients. For those patients that inquire about dentifrice and over the counter
mouth rinses; it is appropriate to recommend a formula that is nonabrasive to the exposed
implant parts and contains antimicrobial ingredients.

Not recommended
Plastic or metal “picks” seen over-the-counter that mimic professional instruments should
be avoided. Metal instruments can scratch the implant surface, creating areas for bacteria to
colonize, and plastic instruments have been shown to imbed residue into the implant
surface. Patients should be cautioned to avoid the use of these “instruments,” as they are for
professional use only.