Recovering From Dental Implant Surgery
April 28, 2022 8:37 pm |A dental implant is the closest substitute for a real tooth. A biocompatible titanium post is surgically placed in your jawbone to replace your missing tooth root, then topped with an artificial tooth.
Because getting a dental implant involves surgery, this procedure is considered more complex and invasive than getting traditional dentures or bridges. To promote a smooth recovery, follow these tips:
Get Plenty of Rest
Rest is critical to the healing process. After your appointment, take it easy for several days. Avoid strenuous activities (including vigorous exercise), bending, and heavy lifting. When you lie down, keep your head elevated.
Use Ice to Reduce Swelling
After oral surgery, it is normal to have swelling for several days. Apply ice to the outside of your jaw for 15-20 minutes and then leave the ice off for another 15-20 minutes. Repeat in increments. If your swelling gets significantly worse or you experience persistent bleeding, a fever, or an increase in pain, please contact us right away.
Eat Soft, Nutrient-Dense Foods
You want to avoid any foods that could disturb the blood clot at the surgery site. Stick with soft foods like applesauce, smoothies, yogurt, pureed soup, baked sweet potatoes, bananas, mashed potatoes, cream of wheat, and cooked oatmeal. Don’t eat anything chewy, spicy, super cold, or very hot. Additionally, avoid straws and tobacco products.
Follow Our Oral Hygiene Instructions
We send patients home with detailed aftercare instructions regarding their oral hygiene. These will let you know how long to avoid rinsing and swishing, and when and how to begin brushing around your surgical site.
Dental Implants at New Columbia Dentistry in Washington, DC
Once your dental implants are complete, they should be cared for like regular teeth. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, brush your tongue, floss every day, and routinely visit the dentist. These habits will keep your gums and jawbone healthy so your implants can last for decades.
If you have any questions about dental implant surgery or want to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brewster, please contact us today!
Dental implant images from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
Categorised in: Dental Tips, Restorative Dental Care