4 Problems You Face With Implants If You Don't Floss

Flossing is critical to the health of your gums, whether you have implants or your real teeth. Failure to floss can create multiple problems for your smile. Here are four problems you may face if you fail to take care of your implants.  

1. Flossing removes food particles that bacteria live on.

      The space between your teeth, while it seems small, is actually a trap which entices food particles to visit and stay. The particles quickly become the necessary component bacteria need in order to survive. As the bacteria and food continue to stay, because of lack of flossing, eventually build up occurs to the point of damaging the gums and areas around the implant. 

2. Increased bacteria counts mean that infection lies below the gum tissue

                "As bacteria build up, it imbeds itself below the gum line and causes inflammation and    

                bleeding," says Dr. Rice. 

 3. Increased inflammation occurs and then bone loss begins

                Unfortunately, inflammation causes bone loss. As the jawbone strength decreases, it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain the stability of your implant.  Periodontist Denine Rice, states, "bone loss can eventually cause you to have to replace your implants or require bone grafting in order to rebuild up the area for your implants to stay firm in your mouth."

4. Bone loss due to infection and inflammation of the gum tissue does not discriminate between implant and natural tooth. 

            The same detrimental effects that are caused by not flossing your natural teeth are the identical problems you can face when you have implants. Bacteria, bone loss and periodontal disease do not discriminate between natural teeth and implants.