Introduction
Dental restorations such as implants, crowns, bridges and veneers help restore the aesthetics and functionality of the smile. However, their durability depends largely on daily oral hygiene. The use of a water flosser and a suitable toothbrush plays an essential role in preventing complications and ensuring the longevity of these dental prostheses.
1. Why is specific maintenance necessary?
Unlike natural teeth, implants, crowns, bridges and veneers have particularities that require meticulous hygiene:
- Dental implants : Plaque buildup around implants can cause peri-implant mucositis, which, if left untreated, can develop into peri-implantitis, an infection that can lead to loss of the implant.
- Crowns and bridges : Plaque and bacteria can build up around the gingival margins and under fixed bridges, increasing the risk of cavities on the abutment teeth and periodontal diseases.
- Dental veneers : Although they are not prone to cavities, poor maintenance can lead to gingival inflammation and detachment of the veneers.
2. The water flosser: an essential tool for dental restorations
The water flosser is particularly recommended for deep clean hard-to-reach areas where flossing is not very effective:
▶ Dental implants: prevention of peri-implantitis
- A study conducted by Magnuson et al. demonstrated that the water flosser reduces 81.8% of bleeding around the implants, against 33.3% with dental floss (PMID: 24568169).
- The pulsed water jet effectively removes the subgingival bacterial plaque and massages the tissues to stimulate blood circulation.
▶ Bridges and crowns: optimized interdental cleaning
- The water jet reaches areas under fixed bridges, preventing plaque buildup and reducing the risk of gingivitis.
- It facilitates the elimination of stuck food debris, often difficult to remove with conventional dental floss.
▶ Dental veneers: gum protection and inflammation prevention
- The water flosser allows you to clean the edges of the facets, warning the gum inflammation which could compromise their membership.
- It effectively removes food residue without damaging the surface of the veneers.
3. The importance of a suitable toothbrush
In addition to the water flosser, an electric or soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended for maintaining dental restorations:
✅ For implants and bridges : An electric brush with a specific head allows for thorough cleaning of marginal areas.
✅ For the veneers : A soft-bristled brush prevents excessive damage and protects the gums.
✅ Adapted brushing techniques : The technique of Modified Bass (brushing in circular movements inclined at 45°) is recommended for optimal cleaning of the gum margins.
4.Recommendations for optimal oral hygiene
To ensure the longevity of your implants, crowns, bridges and veneers, it is recommended to follow these best practices:
✔ Use a water flosser daily, ideally after each meal.
✔ Brush your teeth 2 to 3 times a day with a suitable brush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
✔ Avoid foods that are too hard or sticky materials that could weaken the restorations.
✔ Make regular visits to the dentist to check the condition of the prostheses and the gums.
Conclusion
The rigorous maintenance of implants, crowns, bridges and veneers is essential to prevent complications and prolong their durability. The combination of a water flosser and a suitable toothbrush Allows for optimal cleaning of hard-to-reach areas and effectively protects gum health. By adopting an appropriate hygiene routine, it is possible to preserve dental restorations and avoid peri-implant or gingival infections.
Scientific sources
- Magnuson B, Harsono M, Stark PC, et al. Comparison of the Effect of Two Interdental Cleaning Devices Around Implants on Bleeding and Plaque: A 30-day Randomized Clinical Trial. J Clin Periodontol. 2013;40(3):214-222. PMID: 24568169
- PMCID: PMC11001108 Access free has the study