I’ve worn an upper denture since 2015 but am considering All-on-4 dental implants. My friend has All-on-4, but I notice a strong odor on her breath and am concerned that I might have the same experience. I clean my removable denture nightly. Although I like the thought of a fixed implant denture, I may not be interested if it is challenging to clean. How can I avoid bad breath with All-on-4 implants? – Thank you. Cliff from Aurora, CO
Cliff,
Thank you fur your question. Implant-supported dentures are healthy and highly functional. Fixed dentures look and feel more like your own teeth. They are easier to clean than a removable denture, but you must clean them thoroughly to prevent bad breath, as with your natural teeth or removable dentures.
How Do You Clean All-on-4 Dental Implants?
You can clean All-on-4 dental implants with thorough brushing and using a water flosser to clean beneath the denture and around the implant fixtures.
Brushing
A soft-bristled electric toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste can keep your denture clean. Avoid abrasive products because they can scratch your denture teeth. Brush your tongue, cheeks, and palate to prevent bacterial buildup.
Flossing
Use thick dental floss that can pass beneath the oral appliance and clean beneath the implant denture. A water flosser flushes debris beneath your denture and around the implant fixtures.
Rinsing with Mouthwash
Alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash removes debris and kills germs. Rinse after meals to prevent bacteria buildup that can lead to gum irritation and disease.
Scheduling Exams and Cleanings
Implant-supported dentures do not remove the need for regular oral exams and cleanings. Your dentist and hygienist must check your oral tissue, gums, and implants to ensure they are healthy. Although you cannot get cavities in denture teeth, bacteria and plaque can accumulate around dental implants, leading to gum and bone disease.
Schedule a consultation with a skilled implant dentist to discuss your options for implant-supported dentures, including All-on-4 dental implants.
Sugar Land, Texas, dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post.