Dental Implant After Care

How To Ensure Successful Implant Healing

There are steps you can take to ensure successful healing after a dental implant procedure. It is important to follow all instructions provided by Dr. Mike, including any post-operative care instructions. In addition, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to the success of a dental implant. This includes brushing and flossing regularly and using an antibacterial mouthwash as directed. It is also important to avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as they can slow healing and increase the risk of complications. It is imperative to take all prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection and promote successful healing. Follow these guidelines for optimal implant success, and be sure to schedule follow-up appointments with Dr. Mike. Follow up appointments ensure Dr. Mike maintains a watchful eye on your implant progress.

Techniques to Manage Swelling After Surgery

Some swelling of the gums and face can be expected after dental implant surgery. To manage this swelling, there are a few techniques to consider:

Use ice or other cold compress

Apply an ice pack to the swollen area to help reduce inflammation and reduce associated discomfort. It is recommended to apply the ice pack for 15 minutes at a time, with at least a 15-minute break in between applications.

Rest

It is very important to get plenty of rest and avoid any strenuous activities for several days following dental implant surgery. Rest and healing go hand in hand!

Keep your head elevated

To help reduce swelling, it is best to elevate your head while sleeping.

Soft foods

Eating a soft food diet can prevent aggravating the surgical site, and reduce swelling.

Pain medication

Taking pain medications and antibiotics as prescribed by Dr. Mike will also help reduce swelling and discomfort.

It is important to note that managing swelling after a dental implant surgery is crucial for successful healing. Any concerns or unusual pain should be addressed with the Dr. Mike.

Pain Management After Dental Implant Placement

Discomfort after implant placement can often be managed with over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen, which also helps to decrease swelling.  Prescription pain medication may also be an option.  To control swelling after your dental implants are placed, apply ice or ice packs to the area intermittently during the first 24 hours. It is very important to complete the entire course of antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection and dental implant failure.

Foods To Avoid

Crunchy foods

Foods that are hard and crunchy, such as chips and popcorn, should be avoided for the first couple of weeks after surgery. It is best to temporarily stick to soft foods.

Tough foods

Avoid fruit and vegetables that are difficult to chew, such as raw carrots and apples. Tough foods can put pressure on the surgical site and interfere with the healing.

Chewy foods

Foods that are chewy, such as steak, bagels and some candies, should be avoided as they can irritate and cause minor bleeding.

Sticky foods

Sticky foods, such as taffy and caramel, should be avoided as they can stick to the implant sites.

Hot foods and drinks

Avoid hot food, and do not drink hot liquids for at least 24 hours after dental implant surgery.

Hard foods

Hard foods, such as nuts and hard candy, should be avoided as they can put pressure on the implant site and interfere with the healing.

Spicy foods

Spicy foods should be avoided for at least 24 hours after surgery as they can cause discomfort and irritation to the surgical area.

Oral Care Post Surgery

After dental implant surgery, it is important to practice good oral health care to promote healing and prevent infection. Here are some best practices for oral care after implant surgery:

Use an oral rinse

Use an oral rinse, especially in the first few days after surgery when the area is still healing.

Brush your teeth

Brush twice a day for two minutes each session. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush gently around the implant site to avoid irritating the area. Be gentle when you brush your teeth.

Floss daily

Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from around the dental implants. This Flossing is important hygiene for your natural teeth too. But, be gentle and avoid pulling too hard on the floss.

Schedule regular dental cleanings

Regular cleanings and exams ensure the health and longevity of your dental implants. Professional cleanings are part of a good dental hygiene routine.

Regular Visits To The Dentist

To ensure proper healing and prevent any future complications, Dr. Mike will instruct you on a good dental hygiene routine. Dr. Mike will also check your dental implants for:

Healing progress

Dental implant surgery involves a process that requires the bone to heal tightly around the implant, which can take months. Good dental implant care is essential to ensure healing and to prevent infection. Regular visits will allow Dr. Mike to check how your healing is progressing and whether or not any treatment modifications need to be made.

Loose or painful dental implant

If the dental implants feel loose or painful, it is essential to inform Dr. Mike right away.

Removal of Stitches

After dental implant surgery, stitches may need to be removed. Your healing will be assessed prior to the removal of stitches

Physical Activity

After you replace missing teeth with dental implants, it is important to avoid strenuous physical activity for a short, but important period of time. Strenuous exertion can interfere with the healing process. This includes; lifting heavy objects, carrying children, moving furniture and more.

Exercise

It is best to avoid exercising for at least one week after dental implant surgery to prevent any bleeding. Sexual intercourse is also a form of exercise that should be avoided during the first few weeks of recovery.

In Summary

If you’d like to learn more about dental implants, or wish to be evaluated, please contact Cleveland Implant Institute today by phone or by completing our online form.