Let’s Start with the Basics
If you’ve spent the time and money getting dental implants, you want them to last. Makes sense, right? When I first looked into it, I was focused on the surgery, the healing, and of course, the cost — because let’s be real, the cost of one dental implant isn’t cheap. But what nobody really tells you is how to keep them in top shape once they’re in.
So here’s a rundown of the 11 things I’ve learnt about keeping your implants happy, clean, and doing their job — all from someone who’s been through it.
1. Treat Them Like Real Teeth (Because They Kind of Are)
Just because implants aren’t “real” teeth doesn’t mean they don’t need brushing. Twice a day, just like you would with natural ones. Get yourself a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle but thorough.
2. Flossing Is Not Optional
I used to be terrible at flossing. Really terrible. But implants changed that. Food can still get stuck between your implants and natural teeth, and that build-up can lead to gum problems if you ignore it. I use those little interdental brushes sometimes too — easier than fiddling with string floss.
3. Regular Checkups Are Your Best Mate
Even if everything *feels* fine, book those six-month checkups. The team at Dental Implants London caught a minor gum issue for me early, and I avoided a bigger problem later. They’re pros — let them keep an eye on things.
4. Don’t Skip Professional Cleaning
Normal brushing at home doesn’t always get everything. A proper clean by a hygienist can reach the tricky spots around the implant base. It’s worth every penny.
5. Mouthwash? Yes, but Not Just Any Kind
I didn’t realise this at first, but not all mouthwashes are implant-friendly. Look for alcohol-free ones — they’re gentler on your gums and won’t mess with healing tissue if you’re still early in the journey.
6. Cut Back on Smoking (Or Quit If You Can)
Yeah, you’ve heard it before. But seriously — smoking slows healing and increases the risk of implant failure. If you’ve invested in implants, especially considering the average cost of one dental implant, do yourself a favour and give your body the best chance.
7. Be Aware of Grinding
If you clench or grind your teeth (and loads of us do, especially in our sleep), it can put extra pressure on your implant. I got a night guard made, and it’s been a game-changer.
8. Stay on Top of Your Overall Health
Sounds random, but your gums are affected by conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Keeping your general health in check helps your implants stay secure. Healthy body, healthy mouth.
9. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
You’d think this would go without saying, but old habits die hard. I once used my implant side to open a packet of crisps — not smart. Don’t do it. It’s not worth the risk.
10. Ask Questions (Even the Silly Ones)
No question is too small. I asked my dentist loads of stuff during my follow-ups, including how much pressure I could put on the new tooth, whether I needed special toothpaste, you name it. They’d rather you ask than damage something by guessing.
11. Know the Value of What You’ve Got
It’s easy to forget once they’re in and working well, but implants are an investment. The average cost of 1 dental implant in London can be anywhere between £1,800 and £3,000. That’s a lot of money, and the dental implant cost for one tooth adds up fast if you don’t look after them.
So whether it was your first or your fourth, take care of it like gold. Dental Implants London Clinic made sure I had all the info and support I needed — they weren’t just about the procedure but the long haul too. That’s what you want in a clinic.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, maintaining your dental implants isn’t complicated — but it does take a bit of consistency. Think of it like looking after a car. Regular checkups, daily upkeep, don’t crash it by doing something daft. Do that, and they’ll serve you for years.
If you’re just starting your implant journey or wondering whether the cost is worth it, I’ll say this: for me, it absolutely was. The confidence, the comfort, the freedom — totally changed how I feel about myself.
And with the right care, it’ll keep changing things for the better.
Here’s something else worth mentioning: the emotional side of it all. We talk so much about the cost of one dental implant or how long the procedure takes, but we don’t talk enough about what it feels like to have that missing part of yourself back. I didn’t expect to feel that difference so deeply. I thought it’d just be about eating properly again. But no — it was about showing up to life differently. I smiled more, joked more, and generally felt more at ease in my own skin.
And that’s why all these maintenance tips aren’t just rules for the sake of rules. They’re the things that keep that feeling alive. So whether you’re just starting to research, already booked in, or living with implants, know that it’s not just a dental upgrade — it’s a quality of life upgrade. One worth protecting.
Also read: 10 Essential Tips on Finding the Best Invisalign Provider
