Dental implants provide long-lasting solutions for missing teeth problems. With proper care and maintenance, they offer the same benefits as natural teeth. This long-term teeth replacement option helps stimulate the growth of the jawbone to prevent bone loss due to lost teeth. Implants are also used to secure crowns and bridges in place.
However, like any surgery, the process of embedding dental implants can pose some health risks. While these problems are rare, complications are usually minor and easily treated.
In this post, we rounded up helpful dental implants aftercare tips for fast recovery.
The Healing Phase: Immediate Post-Procedure Care
Immediately after dental implant surgery, taking care of your teeth may be the last thing on your mind. Knowing what to do after dental implant surgery is crucial for the success of the procedure and the longevity of the implant. While your dentist will be in close consultation with you before and after the procedure, there are several things you should and shouldn’t do after the implant surgery.
Here are some immediate aftercare tips after your dental implant procedure:
Follow the Dentist’s Instructions for Post-Dental Implant Surgery Care
Right after the procedure, a set of dental implant aftercare instructions will be provided to you about proper oral hygiene. These may include:
- Refrain from smoking or using straws during the initial 24 to 48 hours.
- Apply ice to the affected area for the first day to minimize the swelling
- Avoid consumption of hard or crunchy food in the first few days
- Follow your dentist’s instructions for taking prescribed pain medication.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash as per the provided instructions.
- Gently rinse your mouth with salt water to keep the surgical area clean
- Schedule a follow-up dental consultation in the next few days.
Managing Bleeding, Swelling, and Pain
Often, most patients may experience bleeding, swelling, and pain in the first 24 hours after the surgery. However, there are several steps you can do to manage these side effects.
To control bleeding, the dentist may provide you with a soft, clean gauze pad to bite on for about 20 to 30 minutes to help form a clot and stop the bleeding. Should the bleeding persist or worsens, promptly contact your dentist, as this might indicate a potential complication. Additional measures, such as reapplication of gauze or taking medication may be essential to stop the bleeding.
Applying ice and avoiding hard foods can help control the swelling on the surgical site. Additionally, ensure to take the pain medication exactly as directed. In case of unbearable or persistent pain, contact your dentist ASAP!
Dietary Considerations During the Healing Phase
Dental implant patients are recommended to stick to a soft diet during the first few days to prevent unnecessary pressure on the surgical area. However, you can gradually resume your regular diet once the implant site starts to heal. Consuming a healthy diet as the surgical site for dental implants heals is crucial for the success of the treatment and recovery.
Practice Oral Hygiene Without Disturbing the Surgical Site
Oral hygiene is a significant part of your post-dental implant care. Keeping the implant site and surrounding teeth clean helps prevent the risk of infection and promotes wound healing.
Following the placement of the implants, never brush or floss the site during the first day. After 24 hours, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the teeth and the implant site in circular motions.
Additionally, your dentist might suggest using an antimicrobial mouthwash to lower the risk of infection and support the healing process. To ensure its effectiveness and safety, follow your dentist’s instructions precisely, as excessive or improper use can have adverse effects.
Long-Term Dental Implant Aftercare
After the healing process of your new implants and surrounding gum, and once your replacement teeth have been fitted, it is crucial to care for them just as you would with natural teeth. To maintain the health of your teeth and gums, follow these guidelines:
- Regular dental check-ups and cleanings
Even after the surgical site has healed, be sure to schedule routine dental check-ups and cleaning to ensure the health and proper functioning of the implant.
- Oral hygiene routine tailored for dental implants
Like natural teeth, ensure the cleanliness of your artificial tooth and its surrounding gum tissues.
1. Brushing techniques and tools
Dental implant patients should use a small-headed toothbrush with soft and flexible bristles. The dentist will teach you the modified Bass technique, the proper brushing method for dental implants. Here is how to perform the modified Bass technique:
- Place the brush head against the gum line, with bristles partially on the gum.
- Position the brush at a 45°angle towards the gum.
- Use small strokes to dislodge debris on the gum line.
- Roll the brush in a flicking motion to clear debris away from the gum line.
- Repeat these steps for each tooth.
- For the biting surface of the tooth, position the brush directly on the surface.
- Gently move the brush back and forth over the entire surface of each tooth.
2. Importance of interdental cleaning
Brushing alone is insufficient to clean all tooth surfaces effectively. Most of us do not know that 40% of these surfaces are interdental. Interdental hygiene is essential to get rid of the accumulation of bacterial plaque between teeth, around implants and other orthodontic appliances. Using interdental products ensures protection against periodontal and peri-implant diseases, as well as interdental decay.
3. Non-abrasive toothpaste recommendations
While using OTC fluoride toothpaste is safe, the dentist will recommend a low-abrasive, tartar-control toothpaste to prevent damage to the implant. Avoid using whitening or brightening toothpaste or those containing baking soda or activated charcoal as they can be too abrasive for your tooth implant.
- Diet and Lifestyle Choices That Promote Implant Longevity
1. Foods to avoid to prevent damage to implants
Avoid consuming foods that are difficult to chew, such as tough steak and crusty bread. Chewing these foods can cause too much movement of your jaw, which potentially delays the healing of the implant site.
2. Healthy foods that benefit oral health and implants
Choosing what you eat matters, especially when caring for your tooth implants. There are several ways that foods can significantly affect your dental implant. Eating a healthy, balanced diet packed with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can keep implants healthy and looking their best.
3. The impact of smoking on dental implants
Osseointegration is essential for the success of your dental implant surgery. However, smoking can impact the process of osseointegration, preventing the implants from healing properly after the placement. This can increase the likelihood of the implant failing over time. Make sure to refrain from smoking after the implant placement.
Recognizing Potential Issues
Dental implant risks are exceptionally rare, making dental implant problems highly unlikely. However, like any procedure, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of.
Signs of Complications and Implant Failure
The risk of failure is likely to occur during the early stages after the procedure. In some cases, problems can result in long-term implant failure. Whether it is an early or late-stage failure, take note of the following complications.
- Severe pain or discomfort
- Difficulty chewing
- Inflamed gums
- Receded gums
- Increased swelling
- Loosened implant
Knowing how to take care of your dental implants after surgery helps guarantee a successful and long-lasting result. With proper tooth implant aftercare, your new tooth will remain healthy and strong for years to come.
To maintain your dental health and enjoy lasting results, remember to visit your dentist regularly, diligently follow oral hygiene practices, be mindful of specific foods and habits, use protective mouthguards when needed, and adhere to all aftercare instructions provided by your dentist. By taking these steps, you can ensure beautiful teeth and a confident smile for years to come!
Experience exceptional dental implant services in Langley, BC, by visiting Township Dental Centre today. Schedule your consultation by calling us at (604) 533-8475. We are eager to help you with all your dental requirements!