If you have had dentures before, it’s normal to wonder if food gets stuck under dental implants?
In short, yes, food can get stuck under any dental implant, including All-on-4 implants.
Your dentist will be able to adjust the gap between your dental implants and your gums if this is a recurring problem.
To put it into perspective, not many people with dental implants find food getting stuck under it to be an issue. Dental implants should feel and function very similar to your natural teeth.
What are the reasons why food gets stuck under dental implants?
The reasons why food might get stuck under a dental implant include:
- For All on 4 the gap between the gums and the dental prosthesis could be too large: This can be adjusted by your dentist.
- For single tooth implants: If the implant was not placed correctly in the bone, it could lead to food getting stuck.
- For single tooth implants: If the tooth was not placed correctly on the implant, it could create spaces where food could get stuck.
- The shape of the tooth placed on the implant: If the tooth’s shape is not ideal, it could lead to food getting stuck.
- Movement of the tooth over time: Sometimes, after the implant is put in, the tooth starts moving over a period of time. This movement can create spaces where food can get stuck.
How to prevent food from getting caught under dental implants?
During the initial dental implant consultation, your dentist will take these steps to prevent food from getting caught under dental implants:
- Proper Implant Placement: Ensures that the dental implant is placed correctly in the bone. Incorrect positioning can lead to spaces where food can get stuck.
- Correct Tooth Placement: The tooth placed over the implant should be done without leaving gaps to adjacent teeth. If not, it can create spaces where food can get stuck.
- Ideal Tooth Shape: An incorrect shape can lead to food getting stuck.
How do I clean to get food out from under my implants?
Here are the steps to clean and get food out from under your dental implants:
- Regular brushing is essential to keep the area around the implant clean and prevent food particles from getting stuck.
- Use dental floss to clean the spaces between the implant and the adjacent teeth. This can help remove any food particles that may have gotten stuck.
- A Waterpik to flush out food particles from under the implant. The water pressure can reach areas that brushing and flossing might miss.
- Regular check-ups with your dentist can help identify any issues early on. If food is getting stuck under the implant, your dentist may need to make some adjustments to the implant or the tooth on it.
Should you be able to floss under an implant?
Yes, you can floss under the dental implant, where the abutment meets the dental crown. Flossing can help remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth and along the gum line, including around dental implants. Special flosses designed for use with dental implants are available, and these can be particularly helpful for cleaning around and underneath the implant crown.
Do dental implants need to be removed for cleaning?
Dental implants need to be removed for cleaning depends on the type of implant and prosthetic used.
Regular Implant Abutment and Crown:
For a regular implant abutment and a crown, they do not need to be removed for a dental cleaning. Regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing are sufficient.
Fixed Prosthetic or Snap Denture:
If you have a fixed prosthetic or a snap denture, these may need to be removed for cleaning. This is to ensure a clean environment around the dental implant. A dentist usually does the removal.
To learn more about cleaning and maintaining your teeth implants, visit: how to clean dental implants.
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