4 Aftercare Tips For Dental Implants
by Gregory Price
Dental implants can be used to restore teeth that are missing. They can prevent jawbone erosion and allow you to recover the pristine smile you lost. While the dental implant surgery is relatively minor, there are still some aftercare instructions you should follow for the best possible results. Follow these four tips so your dental implant can heal easily and quickly:
1. Don't touch your dental implant.
After your dental implant is put in place, you'll be given stitches to encourage your gums to heal where they were cut to accommodate the implant. It's important that you keep this area clean to prevent infection. Don't stick your fingers in your mouth to touch the implant, since your fingers harbor bacteria. You should also avoid prodding at your new implant with your tongue, since this can disturb the stitches. Do your best to let your dental implant heal by leaving it alone.
2. Don't eat piping hot food or drink.
The soft tissue in your mouth may feel sensitive after your dental implant procedure. During the actual surgery, your dentist will cut into your gums and implant a metal rod into your jawbone. Hot food or drink can damage the tissue further and inhibit healing. It can also be unnecessarily painful. It's fine to eat and drink warm things, but avoid anything that's uncomfortably hot for at least a week after your procedure.
3. Use painkillers to control your discomfort.
Most people don't experience pain for longer than a week after their dental implant procedure, but the level of discomfort you personally experience will vary on your pain tolerance and your body's natural ability to recover. Some people find over-the-counter medication sufficient to control any soreness in their jaw or gums. If you're particularly susceptible to pain, you may be able to ask your doctor for prescription painkillers. Take your medication as needed without exceeding the maximum recommended dosage. Stop using pain medication as soon as you feel well enough to do so.
4. Avoid strenuous physical activity for a few days.
In general, it's good to be active. Regular exercise is good for your entire body. However, it's a good idea to take a few days off following the placement of your dental implant. Vigorous activity such as running or biking can jostle your healing implant, stretching out your total recovery time. Do your best to rest as much as possible directly following your implant surgery.
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About Me
Up until a year ago, I did my best to keep my teeth and gums clean. But after securing a new job, I began to work late into the night and didn't have the time or energy to brush and floss before I retired to bed. My busy schedule and poor dental hygiene finally affected my teeth and gums. After experiencing severe pain in several of my teeth, I made an appointment with my dentist. My dentist examined my mouth and discovered three large cavities in my molars. After four long weeks, my dentist finally completed my dental work. I learned a very painful lesson during that time. No matter how busy you are, always brush and floss. I started this blog to inform other people about the importance of good dental care. I hope you find the time to read it. Thanks for visiting.
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