When you have completed the implant surgery, your dentist will give you instructions on how to care for your mouth and new dental implants so they can heal optimally and last a long time. The process might seem daunting at first; however, if you follow these instructions carefully, you will speed up the healing process and increase the longevity of your implants. Operating on your mouth is a delicate procedure, considering it is an extremely sensitive area that can cause bleeding even with minor injuries. As such, it is essential to take special care of your gums and teeth after the operation so they heal as quickly as possible without any complications. There are several post-operative instructions that must be followed after teeth implant surgery.
Brush and floss your teeth gently.
Immediately following the operation, your mouth will be extremely tender and sensitive. There is a chance that you might experience some swelling and bleeding in your gums, so it is best to avoid brushing and flossing your teeth until the bleeding stops and your gums have healed. That means that you will have to rely on a soft-bristled toothbrush and water to clean your teeth while the wound is healing.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is preferable because it will not irritate your gums. If you are unsure whether or not you are brushing your teeth gently enough, ask your dentist if you can use a toothbrush with softer bristles. You can also use a washcloth to wipe your teeth. Flossing will be more challenging since you will have a hard time reaching your gums with the floss. If you are unsure how to floss your teeth with implants, ask your dentist or dental assistant to demonstrate the best way to go about it.
Rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash.
Immediately following the operation and for the next seven to 10 days, you will have to rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent any infection from developing in the healing wound. Ask your dentist which mouthwash is best for your situation. Your saliva will not be enough to keep your mouth clean and bacteria-free at this stage. It is important to keep your mouth clean so the wound can heal properly.
Do not bite hard immediately after dental implant.
While it is important not to brush or floss your teeth, it is equally as important not to bite or chew on anything during the first week after the operation. This gives the gums and surrounding tissue time to heal properly. Following the operation, there will be a soft and tender patch of tissue between the implant and your gum line. It is best not to put any pressure on this area until it has healed. To prevent irritation and infection, do not chew gum, smoke, eat crunchy or hard foods, or drink through a straw. Avoid any foods that are extremely hot or cold.
Use prescribed medication after dental implant.
Immediately following the operation and for the next several days, you will have to take pain medication prescribed by your dentist to ease any discomfort that you might be feeling. If you are unsure which pain medication to take, ask your dentist or dental assistant which is best for your specific situation. Over-the-counter pain medication may be insufficient for treating the pain caused by the operation. If you take over-the-counter pain medication, make sure that it does not contain caffeine.
Take vitamins and eat a healthy diet.
Taking vitamins is a good habit for anyone, but it is especially important to do so when you have teeth implants. Vitamins are essential for the healing process, and they also help to prevent infection and reduce the risk of complications. Ask your dentist which vitamins you should take and how many. Following the operation, you will have to take extra vitamins since your body will be working harder to heal. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep. This will help your body to recover faster and will reduce the risk of complications.
Do not smoke and try to quit after a dental implant.
Smoking is harmful to your health regardless of whether or not you have implants. However, it is particularly detrimental if you have dental implants. Smoking reduces blood flow and oxygen flow to your gums, which might cause them to die and fall off. If your gums fall off, your implants will be exposed and will not last as long as they would otherwise. Even if your gums do not fall off, smoking will make it more difficult to heal properly.
Ask your dentist if you can smoke after your wound has completely healed. In most cases, you will have to wait at least two weeks before you can start smoking again. Broadly, dental implants are safe and effective treatment options for replacing missing teeth that can last a lifetime. Now that you know what to expect during the implant surgery and recovery process, you are better prepared to handle it. Be sure to follow the postoperative instructions outlined above so that your implants can heal properly and last a long time.
Do’s Instruction: Post dental implant treatment
- Begin brushing from the next day. Use any popular pleasant flavored mouthwash and dilute the same as per the instructions on the bottle. Perferably use a normal soft brush & AVOID an electronic toothbrush.
- Brush and floss carefully and do not disturb the surgical area. Rinse thoroughly after eating.
- Sleep with head elevated for the first 24 hrs.
- For the first 3 hours after the treatment avoids hot foods eggs, Jelly, Cereals, Soups, Milk, Fish, Hamburger, Rice, Khichdi, or any Semi-solid/ Finely minced Food is recommended.
- Avoid citrus fruits & juices. Avoid highly spiced food and alcoholic beverages these will cause pain.
- Foods supplements & vitamins are generally not necessary unless prescribed.
Don’ts Instruction: Post dental implant treatment
- DO NOT SMOKE as the heat & smoke will irritate your gums & delay healing. If at all possible use this opportunity to give up smoking.
- NOT RINSE today. But gently clean the treatment area with water or medication as prescribed.
- AVOID excess exertion. Activities like Golf, Tennis, Bowling Gymming, Swimming, etc should be postponed for 2 days after the treatment.
- DO NOT FLOSS for 2 days
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