The Do’s and Don’ts of Caring for Your Dental Implants
October 12, 2023
If you’re considering dental implant surgery to replace missing teeth, it’s a significant step toward a better smile and improved quality of life. Dental implants closely resemble natural teeth, but their long-term success relies on proper care. Keep reading as we explore the essential things you should and shouldn’t do to ensure that your dental implants last and stay healthy after surgery.
Do Get Help from a Loved One
Enlisting the support of a family member or trusted friend during your dental implant recovery is incredibly beneficial. Beyond emotional comfort, they can assist with meal preparation, ensure you take prescribed medications on time, and help with tasks that might be challenging during healing.
Don’t Participate in Strenuous Exercise
It is advisable to take a short break from intense physical activity in the first few days following the dental implant procedure. This brief pause allows your body to concentrate on recovery, minimizing the risk of prolonged bleeding and swelling. Once you begin to feel more comfortable, you can slowly reintegrate your regular exercise routine.
Do Get Plenty of Rest
Lying on your back with adequate head support, using pillows to maintain optimal blood flow to the head, assists in minimizing both swelling and bleeding. This posture is beneficial for reducing facial and oral swelling and preventing excessive bleeding.
Don’t Consume Hot Foods or Drinks
In the first few hours after implant placement, refrain from consuming hot foods and beverages. Pain relievers and numbing agents can heighten mouth sensitivity, increasing the risk of burns from hot liquids.
Do Eat the Right Foods
To ease post-implant surgery discomfort, opt for a soft and nutrient-rich diet. Include gentle choices like mashed potatoes, yogurt, soups, and smoothies. Stay hydrated with water, juice, and broth, and avoid foods that could impact cholesterol and blood pressure. Steer clear of crunchy, hard, or sticky foods for six to twelve weeks to safeguard your gums.
Don’t Smoke
To ensure the best results and reduce the risks of implant failure, infection, and interference with the healing process, it is highly advised to refrain from smoking for a minimum of three months both before and after your implant procedure.
Do Keep Your Mouth Clean
For a successful recovery from dental implant surgery, maintaining oral hygiene is paramount. Starting from the second day after the procedure, rinse your mouth with a warm water and salt solution at least three times a day, especially after meals, to remove food debris. Adhere to your dentist’s guidelines for flossing and brushing your teeth and gums.
Don’t Drink Alcohol
It is advisable to abstain from consuming alcohol within the first 24 hours following implant surgery. Alcohol can hinder the healing process, complicate a smooth recovery, and diminish the effectiveness of antibiotics and pain relief medications.
Do Take Pain Medication
Once the initial numbness from local anesthesia subsides, you may experience slight discomfort and swelling. To alleviate pain, follow your dentist’s guidelines and take any prescribed pain medication as instructed.
About the Practice
Edison Prosthodontics is dedicated to providing a wide range of treatments that prioritize patient comfort and offer personalized care tailored to unique dental needs. With a focus on restoring complete and beautiful smiles, the practice offers comprehensive services, including tooth replacement solutions like dental implants. For more details on dental implants or to schedule an appointment with Edison Prosthodontics, feel free to reach out to their office at (732) 906-0077 or visit their website.