Single-tooth dental implants are an ideal option for replacing a single tooth that has been knocked out, removed due to decay or lost due to some other reason. To ensure these implants last a lifetime, you need to keep them clean. Here are a few top tips that can help.

1. Use a Soft-Bristled Electric Toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes are the best option for cleaning both single dental implants and natural teeth. When you hold the brush head against your teeth, it rotates to sweep the bristles across the tooth's surface many more times per second than you could ever achieve with a manual brush. Choose a toothbrush head that has soft bristles, such as a regular or sensitive model.

2. Brush Thoroughly Every Day

Dentists recommend brushing your teeth every morning and evening to reduce the build-up of plaque. For extra protection, you can also brush one more time, perhaps after lunch. Regardless of how many times you choose to brush, it is important to pay attention to what you are doing to ensure you give each tooth and implant a thorough clean. Systematically brush the fronts, backs and chewing surfaces of all your teeth, including the dental implant.

3. Clean Around the Implant With Crown or Bridge Floss

Crown or bridge floss is designed to clean around dental implants, crowns, bridges, and other types of dental work. You can use this type of floss to remove plaque from around the gumline and in the tight spaces where your dental implant touches the adjoining teeth. Be sure to floss the rest of your teeth as well so that bacteria do not have a chance to grow.

4. Use Non-Abrasive Toothpaste

Some toothpastes contain ingredients that can scratch the surface of a dental implant crown, causing it to lose its naturalistic pearly appearance. Avoid toothpastes that contain baking soda and instead go for a non-abrasive variety. If you are not sure which toothpaste is the best choice, ask your dentist for a recommendation.

5. Use a Water Flosser

Cleaning around a dental implant can be tricky, particularly if it is located towards the back of your mouth. Dentists recommend using a water flosser to clean bacteria out of the gum pockets surrounding the implant, particularly while the implant is still healing after the initial fitting. By removing bacteria in this way, you can reduce the risk of gum infection and therefore the risk of your implant needing to be removed.

Contact a company like Whitehills Dental Practice to learn more.