10 Tips to Take Care of Your Dental Implants and Make Them Last

Dental implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. One reason they’re so widely chosen is their proven success rate. Research shows that when placed and maintained properly, dental implants can last for decades, with success rates above 95%.

Despite this, many people assume implants don’t need care because they’re artificial. That’s a common mistake. The truth is, while implants don’t get cavities, the bone and gum are real. They can still get infected if not cared for, which may cause your implant to fail. 

Our principal dentist in Toowoomba, Dr Pradeep Velagapudi, explains that implant care matters just as much as the procedure itself. Below are ten practical tips to help you maintain your dental implants and keep them healthy for years. 

First, make sure you see your dentist every six months. Implants need the same level of professional care as natural teeth. These visits allow your dentist to check the implants for signs of gum inflammation or bone loss and remove plaque from areas you can’t clean at home, especially around the gumline. This helps reduce your risk of peri-implantitis, a condition that can lead to implant failure if not caught early.



Another tip is to brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day, like you normally do. Pay close attention to the gumline around the implant crown, where plaque can easily collect.

Using a soft-bristle toothbrush, angle your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and gently brush your teeth. Scrubbing too hard can irritate your gums and damage the soft tissue that supports the implant. A low-abrasive toothpaste is best. If you're unsure which one to use, ask your dentist for a recommendation during your next visit.

Use dental floss to clean between your teeth and around the implant. This removes food particles and plaque that brushing can’t reach. Standard floss works well, but if it’s difficult to use, try a floss threader or a water flosser. These tools make it easier to clean around the implant and reduce the risk of gum inflammation.



An antibacterial mouth rinse can help reduce bacteria and support gum health around the implant. Choose one that’s alcohol-free to avoid drying out your mouth or irritating soft tissue. Rinse once a day, especially after brushing and flossing. 



If you're not sure which type to use, your implant dentist can recommend one that fits your needs.

Hard foods like nuts or ice can crack the crown. Sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum can pull on the implant and stress the surrounding tissue. It’s best to chew slowly and be mindful of pressure on the implant side, especially in the first few months after placement. Over time, you’ll learn which foods to be careful with.



Smoking is one of the most common reasons implants fail. It reduces blood flow to the gums and slows healing after surgery. Long-term, it increases the risk of infection and bone loss around the implant.

We strongly recommend quitting before the procedure. But to protect your implant in the years ahead, it’s best to stop completely.

Teeth grinding, especially during sleep, puts stress on the implant and can loosen the crown or wear down the bone. A custom night guard adds a layer of protection. It’s especially helpful if you’ve had dental work on multiple teeth or already show signs of wear.

Stay alert to any changes around your implant. Redness, swelling, bleeding when brushing, or a bad taste in your mouth can all be early signs of infection.



If the implant feels loose or the gums look irritated, call your dentist for a check-up. Catching issues early can prevent long-term damage and protect the implant.

Right after your implant procedure, follow every instruction your dentist gives you. This includes how to clean the area, what to eat, and when to return for follow-up visits. Ignoring post-op care, even for a few days, can slow healing or increase the risk of infection. Proper early care sets the foundation for long-term success.



Lastly, don’t hesitate to reach out to your implant dentist if you have concerns or questions. Whether it’s discomfort, a change in how the implant feels, or uncertainty about which products to use, your dentist is your best resource.

Building that ongoing relationship is one of the best ways to protect your implant for the long run.

Dental implants in Toowoomba are built to last, but they still need care. Most complications can be avoided by sticking to a few simple routines: brushing, flossing, eating mindfully, and seeing your dentist regularly.



At Garden City Dental Practice in Toowoomba, we support patients through every stage of implant care, whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing your implant years later. Contact our friendly team today at (07) 46340664 or book online to schedule a consultation.