How to Care for Your New Dental Implants

Dental Implant flossing

Flossing and Maintenance Tips from Dr. Wagner

Dental implants are one of the most life-changing treatments in modern dentistry. At The Wagner Centre in Chambersburg, PA, Dr. Rebecca Wagner and her team help patients restore function, comfort, and confidence with advanced solutions such as full-arch hybrid implant restorations. But just like natural teeth, implants require proper daily care to ensure long-lasting health and a beautiful smile.

In a recent demonstration, Dr. Wagner walked a patient through proper flossing and maintenance techniques just four weeks after receiving upper and lower hybrid implants. Her hands-on approach highlights not only her surgical expertise but also her commitment to making sure patients feel confident in caring for their new smiles.

Why Implant Maintenance Matters

Implant-supported restorations, such as full-arch hybrids, are securely attached to the jawbone using multiple implants. While they look and feel like natural teeth, plaque and bacteria can still build up around the implants and beneath the bridge. Without proper cleaning, this can lead to gum inflammation, bone loss, and even implant failure over time.

That’s why Dr. Wagner emphasizes the importance of a consistent home care routine, especially flossing and using tools designed specifically for implant care.

Flossing with Hybrid Implants

During the demonstration, Dr. Wagner used Epoxy Soft floss—a special type of floss with stiff blue tips that make it easier to guide between implants. She showed how to:
• Locate the implants by using a mirror and identifying the small access points where the restoration is connected.
• Thread the floss between implant sites using the stiff tip.
• Shimmy the floss underneath the bridge to clean the underside and around the multi-unit abutments (MUAs).
• Repeat for each implant site, ensuring that all areas are thoroughly cleaned.

This technique not only keeps the implants and surrounding gums healthy, but also helps maintain the long-term success of the restoration.

Additional Tools for Daily Care

Flossing is just one part of a complete implant care routine. Dr. Wagner also recommends:
• Waterpik® with the classic jet tip to flush out bacteria and debris around implants.
• Specialized tips such as the Pick Pocket® for deeper cleaning if needed.
• A soft-bristled toothbrush and whitening toothpaste to maintain a bright, clean smile.

She advises patients to follow this sequence:
1. Waterpik® both arches.
2. Brush thoroughly.
3. Floss around each implant.

Ideally, this routine should be done twice daily for the best results.

Patient-Centered Care at The Wagner Centre

What stands out in Dr. Wagner’s demonstration is not just the technical detail but the level of patient care. By guiding her patient step by step, she makes the process approachable and ensures that patients feel empowered to care for their implants.

At The Wagner Centre, Dr. Wagner and her team are dedicated to combining advanced surgical expertise with compassionate, personalized care. Whether it’s guiding patients through a complex procedure or teaching the everyday steps that protect their investment, Dr. Wagner is committed to helping patients enjoy healthy, confident smiles for life.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

If you’re considering dental implants or want to learn more about caring for your restoration, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rebecca Wagner at The Wagner Centre in Chambersburg, PA. With her experience and patient-focused approach, you can feel confident knowing your smile is in expert hands.

Share: