Getting a dental implant is not an easy task. The procedure is extremely invasive; therefore, care after getting your dental implant is crucial for them to work and last a lifetime. Here are the top 10 aftercare tips for safe and fast healing.
1. Start With Adequate Resting
Take it easy for the first 24 hours – After your surgery is over, your mouth will be numb and swollen, so it’s important not to talk or eat, so basically, a day off. Avoid strenuous activities like lifting objects or exercising, and sleep.
2. Bleeding
Make sure there is no bleeding that may happen after surgery. Therefore, to control this, put a gauze over your implant and bite it down firmly for about 20-30 minutes. Repeat this process as required until the bleeding stops.
3. Clean Surgical Site
Try to keep your surgical site clean to prevent infection. For this, use warm salt water, rinse and wash gently. Be careful not to disturb the implant area. Repeat this process a few times a day for the first week.
4. OTC Painkillers
Amongst other care instructions after dental implant surgery, you must not skip pain medication; use them as directed to manage any discomfort you may experience after your surgery. Be sure to take the right dose and not exceed the recommended dosage.
5. Smoking Cessation
Avoid smoking since it can incredibly slow down your healing process. Moreover, increase the risk of infection. So, avoid it for at least 48 hours after your surgery to care after getting a dental implant.
6. Watch What You Eat
Do not eat hard or crunchy foods during the first few weeks after your surgery. They can dislodge the implant or cause sharp cuts and consequent irritation. It is best to have soft foods like soup, pudding, or yummy mashed potatoes.
7. Do Not use Straws
Drinking water or fluid through a straw can cause suction action that dislodges the implant. Therefore, the best thing you can do after the surgery is to avoid using straws for the first few weeks of D-day.
8. Never Miss Your Dental Appointments
Keep up with your regular dental appointments to ensure that your implant is healing properly. Your dentist monitors the implant and makes any necessary adjustments.
9. No teeth Grinding
Wear a night guard helps protect your implant from excessive pressure if you have the habit of grinding your teeth while sleeping. Ask your dentist for a night guard or recommend one for you.
10. Stay Calm
You have just been through a life-changing procedure so stay calm and relaxed. Healing from dental implant surgery will take time; therefore, stay patient. Make sure you do not miss any after care instructions from your dentist to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
To Conclude
Dental implant surgery is safe and very effective in replacing missing teeth. With these post-op instructions, a smooth and successful recovery is inevitable. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us from Champions Dental.