I remember the feeling of finally having my new smile. After years of struggling with broken teeth, painful chewing, and hiding from photos, getting my All On 4® dental implants was life-changing.
But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that keeping them clean is key to keeping them healthy (and keeping that confidence I fought so hard for).
If you’re new to dental implants, thinking about getting them—or even if you’ve had them for a while—here’s what I’ve learned about how to clean All On 4® dental implants the right way.
Why it is Important to Clean All On 4® Dental Implants
When I first got my dental implants, my dentist explained that although my new teeth look and function like natural teeth, cleaning All On 4® dental implants would be a little different.
With a set of teeth being held flush to the gums by a dental implant, it’s possible for small bits of food to get stuck where the gums meet your set of false teeth.
If you don’t clean it out properly, you risk inflammation, infection, bad breath, or if you’re really not taking care of your oral health—problems that could put your implants at risk.
I didn’t go through this journey just to end up with more dental problems down the road. Neither should you.
Keeping your implants clean protects your investment, your health, and your peace of mind.
Cleaning Out Food
One thing I noticed quickly is that food can sneak into little areas under the false teeth—especially after eating things like bread, rice, or meat.
At first, I thought brushing would be enough. It’s not. You really have to flush it out.
That’s where a Water Flosser comes in (and trust me, it’s a game-changer once you learn how to use it right).
How to Clean All On 4® Dental Implants With a Water Flosser
When I first tried using a Water Flosser, it felt like I was making a huge mess. Water everywhere. I almost gave up.
But after a few tweaks, it became second nature. I wish I had had this video from Dr. Annoni at the time!
Here are a few of my own tips and step by step:
- Fill your Water Flosser with lukewarm water (you can even add a little alcohol-free mouth rinse for an extra clean feel).
- Choose the right tip. The angled jet tip works great for everyday cleaning. Some models even have special implant tips.
- Lean over the sink, close your lips slightly around the flosser, and aim carefully.
- Start at the back molars and gently spray along the gumline, focusing on the space between your teeth and your gums.
Don’t forget the inside! (This part was easy to miss at first.)
Rinse out the Water Flosser after each use so old water doesn’t sit there.
Dr. Annoni shares a great tip in her tutorial video: Practice in the shower with a fogless mirror if you’re struggling. It’s way easier to figure out the angles when you don’t have to worry about soaking your whole bathroom.
Using my Water Flosser every day made a huge difference. My gums and mouth stay healthy and feel clean.
Cleaning your Zirconia Teeth
The cleaning doesn’t stop at the gums. Your zirconia teeth need love too. They are part of your mouth and oral health after all.
I brush my teeth morning and night with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste (no whitening toothpaste—it’s too rough and with how stain resistant zirconia is, you really don’t need it).
It’s just like brushing natural teeth:
- Small circular motions
- Focus on where the teeth meet the gums
- Don’t scrub too hard
Even though zirconia is super strong, gentle brushing helps keep them shining and smooth for years to come.
Visiting the Dentist
Even with a good home routine, regular dental visits are non-negotiable.
I go in every 6 months for professional cleanings and to double check that everything looks good with my dental implants.
Honestly, after everything I went through to finally love my smile, these quick appointments are easy.
My Final Thoughts:
If you're still getting used to your smile and wondering how to clean All On 4® dental implants, or you're about to, it’s an important part of your daily routine.
That said, it doesn’t have to be complicated, and after a few weeks, it’ll become second nature.
This smile changed my life. And a few minutes a day keeps it that way.
If you're still thinking about getting dental implants—or fixing problems with your old ones—take the first step to see if you may be a candidate with the 60-second quiz below:
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