Any time we’re indulging in sweets, we probably worry about the cavity risk. Although dental implants don’t develop tooth decay, they’re still susceptible to things like plaque buildup, tartar, and stain from the foods and drinks we enjoy.
Over the holidays, most of us tend to snack more frequently. As a result, we tend to get extra stain and plaque on our teeth than we do other times of the year.
Follow these easy tips to keep your implants clean, gums healthy, and breath fresh through the holidays:
- Rinse with Water Every Time You Eat or Drink
- Vigorous rinsing with water will lift away food debris and dark liquids before they have a chance to attach onto your enamel or implant crowns. Rinse every time you drink anything other than water, as dark liquids tend to cause stain in your smile zone.
- Don’t Brush Immediately
- Scrubbing your mouth with a toothbrush immediately after you eat can rub acids and sugars all over the place. Instead, rinse immediately and then wait at least 30 minutes before you brush your teeth.
- Floss, Floss, Floss (or Use a Waterpik)
- Brushing doesn’t clean between teeth or just below the gumlines. Use your floss or a Waterpik to thoroughly clean between each of your implants and neighboring teeth. Remember, it only takes 24 hours for plaque to calcify into tartar, so you’ll need to be flossing at least once per day.
Due for a Cleaning?
Georgia Denture & Implant Specialists is quickly booking for our checkup appointments through the remainder of the holiday season. Call our office today to schedule!
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