After an implant is surgically placed, your oral hygiene is vital to your healing journey. So, how do we expect you to keep the implant clean? Using a soft bristled, manual toothbrush allows you to have control over the force and direction of brushing. If you are too forceful/aggressive near the implant, the chances of the gums surrounding it becoming sensitive or irritated. You also run the risk of loosening the temporary abutment that is placed over top the implant which is also important to keep clean since the gums will be trying to heal around it. By using a q-tip as well, the temporary abutment can be gently polished, lessening the chances of bacteria getting into the surgical site and causing infection.