When looking at a new tooth implant in the bathroom mirror (as you undoubtedly will), you'll be happily surprised at how natural it looks. The implant itself is safely embedded in your jawbone and all you can see is the prosthetic tooth that's been attached to it. Your gums will surround the tooth, just as they do with your natural teeth. But how strong are those gums? Is it safe to floss around new teeth implants?

Band of Tissues

Your gums offer essential support to a tooth implant. For the implant to be viable in the long term, it needs to have a strong band of gum tissues surrounding the base of the prosthetic tooth—as is the case with your other teeth. These thick gum tissues are also needed for cosmetic purposes to make the implant's prosthetic tooth look natural.

The Healing Process

These gum considerations were already addressed in your treatment plan. After placing the implant in your jaw, your dentist would have applied a healing cap or abutment, which looks like a small metallic disc. This stays in place as your jawbone heals around the implant (which is a small titanium screw). As your jaw heals, so do your gums. They regenerate around the healing abutment, and by the point your permanent prosthetic tooth is ready to be fitted, your gums will be sufficiently dense to achieve a natural appearance.

Fragile Tissues

Immediately after your new tooth is fitted, the surrounding gum tissues will be fragile. You must be cautious while flossing around the new tooth. Even brushing too hard may disturb these sensitive tissues. But poor oral hygiene is a significant risk factor for infections that may attack the soft gum tissues and bone that surrounds an implant. As such, now is the time to be extra vigilant with your oral hygiene.

Use Water

The gum tissues surrounding your implant's prosthetic tooth will recover their health. After that, they can be flossed using whichever method you prefer. Until then, you need to avoid applying friction to the gum tissues in question. Ditch your dental floss and switch to a water flosser. These devices feature a small handheld wand that shoots a jet of concentrated water. You then (gently) water-blast any lingering food debris from between your teeth. It's quick, gentle, and extremely efficient—while also protecting your fragile gum tissues during their recovery.

Flossing can't be discontinued around your new tooth, so you'll need to find an option that safeguards your gums. To learn more about dental implants and their care, contact a dentist in your area.

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