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Dental Implant Myths – Busted by Thames Street Dental

Key Takeaways

• Dental implants require care, but they don’t demand complicated or unusual routines.
• Myths about implant fragility, cleaning methods, and diet restrictions often cause unnecessary worry.
• Following simple, regular oral hygiene keeps implants healthy for decades.

If you’ve invested in dental implants in Kingston, you want to protect your new smile. Unfortunately, a lot of misinformation online can make implant aftercare seem intimidating. At Thames Street Dental, we help patients in Kingston upon Thames and surrounding areas cut through the confusion so they can enjoy their dental implants without stress.

Below, we bust some of the most common myths about dental implant maintenance:

Myth 1: “Dental implants don’t need cleaning like real teeth.”

Truth: While implants don’t decay like natural teeth, they’re surrounded by gum tissue and bone that can still be affected by plaque and bacteria. Without daily brushing, flossing, and regular hygienist visits, you risk gum disease (peri-implantitis), which can lead to implant failure.

Myth 2: “You need special toothpaste and brushes.”

Truth: In most cases, a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste are all you need! Overly abrasive products can scratch the crown surface, making it easier for plaque to stick. Your dentist may recommend interdental brushes or water flossers for hard-to-reach areas – but you don’t need a bathroom full of specialist tools.

Myth 3: “Dental implants are fragile – avoid hard foods.”

Truth: A well-placed, fully integrated implant is just as strong (and often stronger) than natural teeth. Once healed, you can enjoy crunchy apples, crusty bread, and even a steak. The only real caution? Avoid using your teeth (natural or implants) to open bottles or packets – they’re tools for chewing, not DIY!

Myth 4: “Once healed, you never need to see your dentist about implants again.”

Truth: Even if your implants feel fine, routine check-ups are essential. Your Kingston dentist will check the gum health around your implants, ensure there’s no hidden inflammation, and confirm that your bite remains aligned to prevent unnecessary wear.

Myth 5: “Implants can’t get stained.”

Truth: While implant crowns are stain-resistant, they’re not stain-proof. Dark beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine can gradually dull their brightness. Regular hygiene visits and polishing at Thames Street Dental help keep your smile sparkling!

Implant Care in Kingston – Made Simple

At Thames Street Dental, we believe dental implant maintenance should feel natural and stress-free. If you follow the same good habits you would for natural teeth — daily cleaning, balanced diet, and routine check-ups – your implants can last for decades!

If you’re considering dental implants, or have questions about caring for your current ones, our friendly team is here to help.

📞 Call us today or book online to keep your smile healthy for life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Q: Can dental implants get cavities?

No – but the surrounding gums and bone can still be affected by plaque.

Q: How often should I see a hygienist with implants?

At least twice a year, but your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

Q: Do dental implants feel different to clean than natural teeth?

Slightly – the gum contour can be different, so your dentist may suggest interdental brushes for thorough cleaning.

Further Reading:

Read the following posts for more information about dental implants:

What Are Dental Implants? A Beginner’s Guide

Dentures vs. Dental Implants: What is right for you?

Our Dental Implants Treatment page