Long-Term Care, Long-Lasting Results
Your Guide to Dental Implant Care
and Maintenance
Understanding Implant Integration and Aftercare
for Healthy Smiles
Daily Care Tips for Your
Dental Implants
- Gentle Brushing
Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled manual or electric toothbrush. Focus on cleaning around the implant crown and gumline without using excessive pressure to avoid irritation or damage to surrounding tissues.
- Daily Flossing
Floss daily using unwaxed floss, floss threaders, or specially designed implant floss. This helps remove food particles and plaque between teeth and implants, reducing the risk of inflammation or infection near the gum line.
- Regular Check-ups
Book routine dental visits every 6 to 12 months or as recommended. Your dentist can monitor the health of the implant, clean hard-to-reach areas, and identify any early concerns like gum changes or bone loss.
- Avoid Hard Foods
Limit chewing on hard items like ice, unpopped popcorn kernels, or hard nuts. These can place stress on the implant restoration and surrounding areas, increasing the risk of cracks, chipping, or structural wear over time.
What to Expect from Your Implant Maintenance Visits at Eversmile Dental
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a warm, welcoming team in a calm and relaxing environment. The check-in process is simple and smooth to keep things stress-free. If you’re feeling nervous, you’re not alone; our team takes the time to understand your concerns and support your comfort from the very beginning. Your visit begins with attentive care and genuine consideration for your well-being.
During your dental implant maintenance visit, the dentist will perform a detailed visual examination of the implant, gums, and surrounding tissues. They’ll check for signs of inflammation, redness, bleeding, plaque build-up, or early indicators of peri-implantitis. Identifying these concerns early allows for timely care. This proactive approach helps preserve the implant’s stability, supports healthy gums, and contributes to the long-term success of your dental treatment.
During your maintenance visit, the team will gently clean around the implant crown and abutment using implant-safe instruments, including the EMS Airflow system. This advanced air-polishing technology comfortably removes plaque and biofilm without harming the implant or surrounding tissues. The process is gentle, effective, and tailored to your needs. Preventive cleaning helps reduce the risk of peri-implant inflammation and supports the long-term health of your gums and implant site.
To monitor the health of your implant, the dental team may use advanced tools like CBCT scans when clinically appropriate. This 3D imaging helps assess bone stability and detect early changes that standard X-rays might miss. Intraoral scanners may also be used to digitally track gum contours or prosthetic fit. These technologies support proactive, evidence-based care by allowing precise comparisons and personalised treatment planning at each maintenance visit.
At the end of your visit, you’ll receive personalised advice based on your current oral health and implant conditions. Such recommendations may include updates to your cleaning routine, suggestions around diet or habits, or scheduling follow-up care. Every recommendation is tailored to support your ongoing comfort and implant stability. Eversmile Dental is committed to helping Bunbury patients maintain long-term oral health through thoughtful, individualised care at every stage.
Our Work, Our Patients’ Happy, Healthy Smiles
*These images display actual patients of our clinic. Every case is different, and treatment outcomes can vary according to individual conditions and needs.
Why Bunbury Locals Trust Us With Dental Implants
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- Proudly Bunbury Locals
- Our team lives and works right here in Bunbury, so when we say we care, it’s personal. When you choose Eversmile Dental, you’re choosing a team that understands the local lifestyle and delivers care with genuine care.
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- Serving Since 2006
- For almost two decades, we’ve helped patients in Bunbury and the South West rebuild their smiles with long-lasting, natural-looking dental implants. With advanced training and hands-on experience, our implant dentists are trusted for their precision and attention to detail. You’re not just getting a tooth—you’re getting peace of mind.
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- Gentle Dental Care for Every Generation
- Dental implants are about more than just restoring function—they help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. At Eversmile Dental, we take a patient-focused approach to care for individuals of all ages. We focus on building a strong, healthy foundation, understanding your goals, and providing treatment that fits seamlessly into your life, both now and for the long term.
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- Personalised Care That Feels Right for You
- Every implant journey is different. That’s why we start with a conversation, not a sales pitch. We’ll guide you through your options with full transparency around cost, timing, and outcomes. You’ll have time to ask questions, feel heard, and make a decision you’re completely comfortable with.
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- Driven by Our Values
- We’re not in the business of pushing procedures—we’re here to help you make informed choices. Honesty, integrity, and patient-first care are at the core of how we operate. If implants are right for you, we’ll guide you through the process with skill and care. If they’re not, we’ll tell you—and offer alternative options.
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- Advanced Technology for Comfort and Precision
- From CBCT to digital planning and in-house 3D printing, we use modern technology to plan and place implants with accuracy and care. This means smoother appointments and better long-term outcomes. You don’t need to travel far for advanced dental care—it’s right here in Bunbury.
Consistent Care to Keep Your Smile Strong
Keeping up with dental implant care is simpler and more convenient when it’s close to home. At Eversmile Dental, patients in Bunbury, Australind, Dalyellup, and Eaton enjoy consistent, professional support without the stress of travelling long distances like Perth for routine maintenance.
From check-ups and cleaning to careful monitoring, we make implant care accessible and comfortable. Book your consultation today and experience supportive, personalised dental care that fits your schedule and supports your long-term oral health.
Explore Our Dental Implant Information Pages and Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dental implants require routine maintenance like natural teeth?
Yes, dental implants benefit from ongoing care, just like natural teeth. Daily hygiene and regular visits help maintain their condition. Here’s why dental implant care and maintenance are important for long-term success:
- Plaque and bacteria can build up around implants:
Like natural teeth, plaque can collect around implants. The buildup may lead to gum irritation if implant maintenance is overlooked. - Daily cleaning helps protect the surrounding gum tissue:
Brushing and flossing are key to good dental implant care. Consider using an implant-specific toothbrush or soft interdental brush. - Professional check-ups help identify issues early:
During dental implant check-ups, your dentist monitors bone levels and gum health around the implant. Early intervention supports stability. - Neglecting aftercare can lead to inflammation:
Even though implants aren’t prone to decay, peri-implant disease is a risk if implant maintenance routines lapse. - Implants require the same care as your other teeth:
Follow the same daily practices as you would for natural teeth. Think of this as part of a complete oral care plan.
If you’re uncertain how to clean around your implant, seek implant dentist advice tailored to your needs. They can guide you on effective tools and techniques.
What is the proper maintenance routine for dental implants?
A consistent care routine supports the health of your gums and the stability of your implants over time. Here are some important tips for maintaining implants day to day:
- Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush:
Angling the brush towards the gumline helps clean the dental implants while being gentle on surrounding tissue. - Use implant-specific floss:
Flossing removes plaque between the implant and natural teeth. It’s a helpful step in cleaning dental implants thoroughly. - Use interdental brushes or water flossers if recommended:
These tools can help clean hard-to-reach areas around your implant. Always follow personalised instructions from your dental team. - Attend scheduled appointments for professional monitoring:
During your dental implant check-ups, your dentist will check gum health and implant stability using specific tools and scans. - Ask your dental team for personal advice:
Ask your dental team for guidance on specific products or techniques that suit your daily care routine. If you’re not certain how to look after dental implants, they may suggest oral hygiene aids that suit your specific implant care needs.
How do you clean around a dental implant at home?
Daily cleaning helps protect the soft tissue around your implant and supports long-term gum and bone health. Here’s how to care for your implant at home:
- Brush gently along the gumline and around the implant crown:
Angling the brush towards the gumline helps with cleaning dental implants thoroughly while being gentle on surrounding tissue. - Choose a non-abrasive toothpaste:
Whitening or charcoal pastes may wear down implant surfaces. A gentle formula helps protect the crown while cleaning effectively. - Use single-tuft or angled brushes for precise cleaning:
These brushes can reach tight areas around the implant that standard toothbrushes might miss, especially near the gumline. - Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash or saltwater solution:
Rinsing helps reduce bacteria and inflammation. It’s a useful part of daily implant care when brushing and flossing aren’t enough. - Set a consistent routine for daily care:
Set a consistent routine for daily care. Your dental team may provide helpful dental hygiene tips after implants based on your home habits.
What type of toothbrush is recommended for dental implants?
A soft-bristled toothbrush is generally recommended for cleaning around dental implants. It helps clean effectively while being gentle on the gums and the implant surface. Here’s why a soft brush is a suitable choice:
- Minimises abrasion:
Hard bristles or abrasive brushing may damage the implant crown or irritate the surrounding soft tissue. Soft bristles reduce that risk. - Supports plaque removal:
When used with small strokes at the gumline, a soft-bristled toothbrush helps clean the implants without causing discomfort. - Comfortable for daily use:
A soft brush is gentle enough for twice-daily brushing, even for those with sensitive gums or recent implant placement.
Can I use mouthwash or toothpaste on dental implants?
Yes, you can use both mouthwash and toothpaste with dental implants, but not all products are suitable for daily use. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Use a non-abrasive toothpaste:
Toothpastes with charcoal or strong whitening agents may wear down the implant crown. Choose a gentle, low-abrasive formula to help maintain the surface. - Avoid toothpaste with harsh ingredients:
Ingredients like baking soda or stannous fluoride may be too abrasive for daily implant care. Look for gel-based or sensitive formulas instead. - Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash:
Alcohol-based rinses may dry out the soft tissue around the implant. An alcohol-free option supports a healthier oral environment. - Use mouthwash to support your daily cleaning routine:
Rinsing helps reduce bacteria, but is most effective when used after brushing and flossing.
Can food get stuck under or around dental implants?
Yes, food can sometimes become trapped around or between dental implants, especially near the gumline or adjacent teeth. This is more likely if the spacing is slightly uneven. If left in place, food debris may irritate the surrounding gums. Over time, this can contribute to plaque buildup or local discomfort.
In some cases, small gaps around the implant may naturally allow food to collect. If this happens often, your dental team can assess the area and discuss whether additional care or monitoring is needed.
How do you prevent food from getting trapped around implants?
While food getting trapped around implants is common, a few daily habits can help reduce buildup and keep the area clean. Here are some ways to minimise food accumulation:
- Brush carefully around the gumline:
Pay extra attention when brushing near the implant crown. This helps remove leftover food that may cling to the gum margin. - Floss daily using implant-friendly floss or tape:
Flossing between your implants and neighbouring teeth helps clear trapped particles and supports gum health. - Use interdental brushes to clean narrow spaces:
These small brushes are helpful for removing food between the implant and adjacent teeth where standard brushes can’t reach. - Consider a water flosser after meals:
A gentle water stream can dislodge food debris, especially from hard-to-reach areas around the implant. - Chew slowly and rinse after eating:
Slower chewing may help reduce how much food gets forced between teeth. Rinsing with water can flush out lingering particles.
What foods should I avoid after getting implants?
Right after implant placement, certain foods can interfere with healing or increase the chance of irritation near the surgical site. Here’s what not to eat with dental implants, especially during the early recovery phase:
- Hard or crunchy foods:
Foods like nuts, chips, and raw vegetables can put pressure on the implant site and may cause discomfort or delay healing. - Sticky foods:
Avoid caramels, lollies, or dried fruit. These can cling to the surgical area and are harder to remove with gentle cleaning. - Chewy meats or bread:
Tough or dense foods like steak or crusty bread may strain your jaw and put stress on the healing implant. - Spicy or acidic items:
Hot sauces, citrus, and vinegar-based dishes may irritate the gums around the implant in the early stages of recovery. - Very hot foods and drinks:
Excess heat can disrupt healing and may cause irritation at the implant site.
Why do my implants hurt when I eat?
Dental implants should feel comfortable once fully healed, so pain during eating may signal irritation or an issue worth checking. If discomfort continues, it’s important to schedule a review. Your dental team may suggest further checks as part of your regular check-ups for implant longevity. Here are some possible reasons:
- Healing is still in progress:
Mild discomfort can occur in the first one to two weeks after surgery. During this time, stick to soft foods like yoghurt, scrambled eggs, or mashed vegetables. - Trapped food or plaque:
Food debris between the implant and adjacent teeth may irritate the gums. If food gets stuck and presses against the gums near the implant, it can cause localised tenderness or inflammation. Regular cleaning is part of good dental implant care and helps reduce this risk. - Bite alignment changes:
If your bite has shifted or opposing teeth apply uneven pressure, discomfort during chewing may occur. - Signs of inflammation around the implant:
Ongoing pain may indicate irritation in the surrounding tissue. It’s a good idea to bring this up during your next dental visit for assessment.
How long do dental implants last with proper care?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term option for replacing missing teeth, but their lifespan can vary from person to person. The implant post, which is placed into the jawbone, can last 20 years or more with consistent care. In many cases, it remains stable for decades, especially when supported by healthy gums and good oral hygiene. The crown, bridge, or denture attached to the implant generally lasts between 5 and 15 years. These components are exposed to daily wear and may need replacement over time due to normal use.
Practising good oral hygiene, attending regular dental visits, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding or smoking can help support the long-term success of the implant.
How long does it take for dental implants to fully heal?
Healing after dental implant placement happens in stages, and the timeline can vary depending on individual factors and treatment complexity.
- Initial healing (soft tissue) – 1 to 2 weeks:
This includes healing of the gum area around the surgical site. Most patients return to normal daily activities during this time. - Osseointegration (bone integration) – 3 to 6 months:
The implant posts bond with the jawbone, forming a stable foundation. This is the most critical phase for long-term success. - Abutment healing – 1 to 2 weeks:
After the post integrates, a small connector called an abutment is placed. The gum tissue around this area needs time to heal before fitting the final restoration. - Final adjustment – 1 to 2 weeks:
Once the crown, bridge, or denture is placed, the gums and bite may need a short period to adjust. This stage helps your mouth adjust for long-term comfort and function.
What are the signs that something is wrong with an implant?
While many implants function well after placement, there are certain signs that may indicate a problem and should be checked by your dental team. Common signs to watch for include:
- Pain or discomfort that doesn’t improve:
Some tenderness is expected after placement, but ongoing or sharp pain may signal an issue with the implant or surrounding tissue. - Swelling, redness, or bleeding around the implant:
Persistent inflammation around the gum area may suggest irritation or infection and should be assessed promptly. - Looseness or movement of the implant or crown:
If the implant or the attached restoration feels unstable, it may indicate a problem with the fit or the bone support. - Bad taste or odour that doesn’t go away:
This may be caused by trapped debris, presence of bacteria or inflammation around the implant site and should be checked by your dental team as soon as possible. - Difficulty chewing or changes in your bite:
Sudden changes in how your teeth fit together or discomfort while chewing may be a sign of a complication related to the implant.
Do I still need to visit the dentist regularly with implants?
Yes, regular dental visits are still important even after dental implants have been placed and healed. Aftercare for dental implants includes more than daily brushing and flossing. Regular visits allow for professional cleaning, X-rays if needed, and early detection of any changes. This ongoing care supports long-term function and comfort.
Your dental team can also provide guidance on how to look after dental implants at home. This may include tips on cleaning tools and daily habits to help reduce the risk of complications. Routine visits support the health of your implant and your overall oral care over the long term.
