DENTAL IMPLANTS AND THEIR AFTERCARE TIPS.

Knowing the proper dental care tips to take care of your new implants is a significant step into having a durable and stressless after-surgery life. Dental implant care is very important for a clean and healthy oral lifestyle. With this extra care, patients can avoid having problems with their new implant and remember that the Dentist is only a phone call away if any strange feeling is noticed.

Immediately after dental implant surgery, patients must have someone around to take them home. Resting should also be a top priority for the next couple of days. Implants should not be touched with the hands or tongue after being fixed. It is also best to avoid unnecessary harsh mouth rinsing.

HOW TO CONTROL BLEEDING.

In the first 72 hours after dental implant surgery, there would be bleeding. Dentists will generally give patients a gauze to bite on would help to control the bleeding. Patients should replace blood-soaked gauze with new ones for as long as is needed till the bleeding stops.

If the bleeding persists and flows rapidly, then patients should get a wet tea bag. The black tea contains tannic acid, which aids blood coagulation. It can also help protect the implant site against infection. To further help prevent excessive bleeding, avoid anything rigorous, don’t use a straw, smoke, or even exercise.

PAIN MANAGEMENT

NSAID research has shown that prevalent pain killers like ibuprofen, Advil, and Aleve negatively affect the Osseointegration process. So it is recommended that Tylenol, a more tolerant pain killer, is used strictly according to the Dentist’s prescription after an implant. This painkiller must not be used in a time duration fewer than 6 hours’ interval. The pain is expected to wear off within five days of the dental implant surgery. It is not unusual for patients to feel difficulty swallowing food after the surgery.

However, if pain persists and patients continually experience symptoms, then they should immediately inform their Dentist.

HOW TO HELP REDUCE SWELLING.

After surgery, the gum and face are usually swollen, and there might be signs of bruising around the eyes and nose due to the sinus graft. These swelling and symptoms are expected to disappear within three days on their own. Patients can, however, aid the lessening process by placing an ice pack on the affected area of the face for 10-15 minutes repeatedly. It’s also recommended to stay hydrated during times like this. Using two or more pillows when sleeping would be preferable for now. Adequate rest is needed to help the healing process, and the rest time can last for up to one week.

HOW TO GO ABOUT EATING AFTER HAVING AN IMPLANT?

Eating your favorite foods or solid food might be difficult immediately after surgery. It’s best to start with cereals or soups. Gradually, as the swelling subsides and healing progress, more food can be accommodated into the routine.

Patients should avoid hot beverages or solid foods throughout the first week after surgery. After the first week, food and beverages should be taken must be in mild temperatures. Patients should eat a balanced diet filled with nutrients to help the healing process.

Patients shouldn’t chew food with the side of the mouth, and when drinking fluids, they should avoid spilling them on the surgical area. Alcohol and smoking are also not great options as they can damage the implants.

KEEP GOOD ORAL HYGIENE.

Patients can Brush twice daily but should avoid the implant area as much as possible. They can use salt and water solution for one week to rinse the mouth after eating to help remove food particles.

Patients should not floss or use an electric toothbrush in the meantime. It is recommended to use a nightguard to help avoid teeth grinding or clenching.

ROUTINE CHECKUPS

Visit the Dentist when necessary so the Dentist can examine the healing progress and remove the stitches when due.

FAQ’s