Top Tips For Dental Implant Aftercare

Top Tips For Dental Implant Aftercare

Dental technology has come a long way since the days of dentures and bridges. If you have a missing tooth or two, it’s not too difficult to replace it with a realistic looking implant. It can be costly up front but well worth the initial investment, as dental implants last a long time with proper care. You’ll also be able to eat better and smile more confidently.

Getting dental implants requires two or more visits. While not on par with a major oral surgery, it can still be stressful for many people. To increase your comfort level and ensure your surgery is a success, here are some tips for dental implant aftercare:

Follow directions

Your dentist will have a recommended course of aftercare and it’s imperative that you follow it exactly. If you’re prescribed medications, take them per your dentist’s instructions. Keep all of your follow-up appointments.

Cold compress

You’ll experience some swelling and pain. Ice packs and cold compresses on your face can help reduce your discomfort. If you continue to experience swelling, see your dentist as this can be a sign of infection.

Avoid eating immediately

You should avoid eating immediately after the surgery, at least until your anaesthesia wears off. Cold food is generally suggested for the first day, then only soft food for several months thereafter.

Use gauze to stop bleeding

While a little bleeding is normal after the surgery, if you continue to bleed, contact your dentist’s office.

Avoid cleaning

Avoid brushing or flossing your dental implants for at least a week after the surgery. You can clean around your surgery site to prevent stitches from opening. Stitches are usually removed after a week. You can then resume your normal hygiene activity but with special care. Don’t use an electric toothbrush around your implants. Use soft bristles.

Avoid smoking and drinking

Smoking (or chewing on tobacco products) and drinking should be avoided until the surgery site heals completely, as those activities will slow down the healing process.

Avoid strenuous activities

Dental implant surgery is taxing on your body. Skip a day or two of exercise or working out. This is your chance to relax, however hard that might seem!

Go for regular check-ups

Besides the follow-up appointments, continue to visit your dentist regularly for cleaning. Your dentist may take X-rays to check for the bone integration of the implants.

Miscellaneous tips

Avoid touching the surgery site with your tongue or finger, as tempting as it is. Sleeping on 2 or 3 pillows can help reduce swelling.

It’s normal to feel discomfort after getting dental implants. It’s highly likely that your mouth is sensitive to foreign objects. If you’ve ever had fillings or crowns, you probably understand how strange they felt the first time.

Dental implants are the same. While they look and act like real teeth, it takes a few months for them to really feel like a part of your teeth. If you care for them like you normally do for your regular teeth, dental implants will last a very long time.

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