Implant Care
For long-lasting stability of the dental prosthesis
Dental implants can provide a long-term replacement for missing teeth. However, to ensure they remain stable, they require careful maintenance. This is because bacterial plaque can cause inflammation even on implants and, over time, compromise their stability.
Find out here the most important information about proper dental implant care and the long-term stability of dental prostheses.
Implants are durable, but not indestructible
Dental implants are usually made of ceramic or titanium and are firmly anchored in the jawbone. They perform the same function as a natural tooth root. Despite this stable anchoring, bacterial plaque can damage the surrounding tissue. Unlike natural teeth, implants lack the periodontal ligament, which provides an additional protective barrier. As a result, inflammation can spread to the bone more quickly.
Biofilm as the primary cause of inflammation
A bacterial biofilm also forms on dental implants. If this biofilm is not removed regularly, superficial inflammation of the mucous membrane—known as peri-implant mucositis—can develop. If left untreated, this can progress to peri-implantitis. This condition leads to bone loss in the jaw and can eventually result in the loss of the implant.
Home Implant Care and Professional Support
Thorough daily cleaning is the foundation of implant care. It is particularly important to clean the spaces and junctions between the implant, the crown, and the gums. Regular professional checkups are also recommended. During these visits, plaque is removed, implants are examined, and individual risk factors are assessed.
Early detection protects the implant in the long term
Inflammation around the implant often causes little to no pain at first. Typical signs may include bleeding gums, swelling, or an unpleasant taste. If these changes are detected early, inflammation can often be effectively managed. Regular follow-up care is therefore an important part of successful long-term implant treatment.
Do you already have an implant, or are you planning to get one?
