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Post-Operative Implant Care
Dental implants are a life-changing treatment that can last a lifetime if cared for properly, which is why they’re becoming one of the most popular solutions to tooth loss. On top of having an extremely high success rate in comparison to alternative restorative treatments, implants can offer a permanent solution to missing teeth. Best of all, they can help improve your self-esteem and boost your confidence, while also restoring your overall health.
After your dental implant procedure, it’s important to take proper care of your oral hygiene to ensure a successful recovery. Dr. Svoboda and our team will provide you with personalized instructions on how to take care of your mouth after surgery. Read on to learn more about general dental implant aftercare.
Caring For Your Implants
The recovery period following your implant procedure can go smoothly and efficiently if you follow these simple tips provided by Dr. Svoboda. Caring for your implants is similar to caring for your natural teeth, so we recommend the following:
- Brush twice a day with a gentle, non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss daily with a nylon-coated floss or one made for implants
- Rinse with a mouthwash that doesn’t list alcohol as an ingredient
- Visit the dentist at least every six months for regular check-ups
The Recovery Process
Each patient’s recovery process will be different. There are multiple factors that should be taken into consideration, such as the number of teeth affected, how many implants were inserted, the length of your surgery, and how your body reacts to dental procedures.
If your procedure involves little to no grafting, your recovery period will be easier, resulting in minimal swelling and discomfort. However, if your treatment requires multiple implants and supplemental procedures, then the recovery process may take a little longer.
Tips for a Faster Recovery
While everyone’s body recovers from medical procedures differently, Dr. Svoboda and our team of dentists have compiled a list of general tips and things to avoid to help ensure a smooth recovery.
Tips Dr. Svoboda recommends to our patients include:
- Avoid any pressure caused by spitting or sucking
- Beware of drinking from straws as this may elicit bleeding
- Smoking for the first two to three days following surgery is strictly prohibited
- Rinse with warm salt water several times a day
- Be cautious and brush slowly so you don’t disrupt the healing process
- Keep physical activity to a minimum
Once you’ve fully recovered from your surgery, knowing how to properly care for your dental implants will assure that they radiate beauty and feel comfortable for a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if there are any complications with my dental implants?
Can your mouth reject the implant?
What can I eat after the implant procedure?
What do I do if there are any complications with my dental implants?
Dental implant complications are rare, with the procedure having a 98 percent success rate. However, if you’re in severe pain or discomfort, call our Brampton office at (905) 454-3320 right away. Don’t attempt to fix the problem yourself, as this can result in permanent damage and delay your recovery. Dr. Svoboda will make sure you get the care you need as soon as possible.
Can your mouth reject the implant?
It’s extremely rare that a patient’s mouth will reject their dental implant. This is caused by a rare allergic reaction to the titanium alloy that the implant is made with. Another reason for possible implant failure is improper aftercare. Without good oral hygiene, natural teeth will fail and fall out, which can also happen to your dental implant. When you take good care of your teeth and implants, it’ll help prevent other issues such as gum decay.
What can I eat after the implant procedure?
Your jaw may be sensitive during the first week of recovery, therefore eating may be a challenge. A nutritious, healthy diet made up of softer foods is recommended for comfort and healing. These are the good choices you can eat throughout your dental implant recovery:
- Scrambled eggs
- Macaroni and cheese
- Mashed potatoes
- Fruit smoothies
Some patients may need more than 10 days until they’re able to fully chew food again. Foods like chips, popcorn, and nuts should be avoided since they may irritate your gums.