What You Need to Know About Flossing with Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth, offering the strength, beauty, and reliability of a natural smile. However, just like real teeth, implants need daily care to stay healthy — and that includes flossing. Proper flossing helps protect your implants from infection and ensures they last for many years to come. Here’s what you should know about keeping them clean and healthy.

Why Flossing Matters for Dental Implants

Even though dental implants can’t decay like natural teeth, the tissue and bone surrounding them are still vulnerable to infection. Food particles and bacteria can build up around the base of the implant, leading to inflammation known as peri-implantitis. If left untreated, this can weaken the bone and cause the implant to fail.

Flossing removes bacteria and debris that brushing alone can’t reach, especially around the gumline and between the implant and neighboring teeth. Making flossing part of your daily routine helps preserve your investment — and your smile.

The Best Tools for Cleaning Around Implants

Traditional dental floss may not always be the best option for implants, since the material can sometimes shred or get caught on the restoration. Instead, consider using tools designed specifically for implant care:

• Implant-specific floss: These flosses have a thick, spongy section and a stiff end that allows you to thread it under the bridge or around the implant post.
• Water flossers: A gentle stream of water can effectively remove plaque and food particles around the implant without putting pressure on the gums.
• Interdental brushes: These small, soft-bristled brushes fit between teeth and implants, providing a simple and effective way to keep the area clean.

Your periodontist or hygienist can recommend which option works best for your unique implant design and gum sensitivity.

How to Floss Dental Implants Correctly

When flossing around an implant, your goal is to clean gently but thoroughly. Here’s how:

1. Thread the floss under the implant crown or bridge using the stiff end of the floss or a floss threader.
2. Wrap the floss in a “C” shape around the implant and slide it up and down along the side of the crown.
3. Clean under the gumline with care — don’t snap the floss down or use harsh pressure.
4. Rinse afterward to wash away loosened debris.

If you’re using a water flosser, aim the tip at the gumline and move it slowly around each implant for about 10 seconds per side.

How Often to Floss with Implants

Just like natural teeth, implants should be flossed at least once a day. The best time to floss is before bedtime, when your mouth is free of daytime food particles and bacteria. Consistent cleaning helps prevent infection, maintain gum health, and keep your smile looking its best.

With the right tools and techniques, flossing with dental implants becomes a quick, easy part of your routine — and an important step in keeping your new teeth healthy for decades.

About the Practice

Patients can count on Dr. Patrick Crowley of Bluff Creek Dental for maintaining great oral health. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, Dr. Crowley completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at OU, gaining extensive experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, including dental implants and complex cases. Dr. Crowley stays current with the latest dental techniques through ongoing education and is an active member of professional organizations such as the American Dental Association, the Oklahoma Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to personalized care, Dr. Crowley enjoys helping patients achieve healthier, more confident smiles.

Call us at (405) 751-5515 or request an appointment online.