According to the American Dental Association, dental implants are highly effective in replacing any number of missing teeth. Getting dental implants yields long-term results but after the procedure, expect to encounter certain post-surgery eventualities. The good news is that you can handle these situations at home after the procedure. Here’s what you need to know about proper dental implant surgery aftercare.

Inflammation

Dental surgeons always tell their patients to expect some swelling after dental implant surgery. To deal with the inflammation, place an ice pack on the part of your cheek that touches the affected area. Be sure to wrap the cold pack in a towel before you place it on your cheek. The cold will help bring down the discomfort and inflammation. Do this as frequently as you can for two days post-surgery. Remember to have 20-minute rest time in between cold compressions.

Aches and Pains

Once you feel the local anesthetic fading, take pain relievers immediately. Over-the-counter pain medications will be sufficient to manage your pain. In case the pain is severe, contact your dental surgeon right away. You may need a stronger pain reliever that requires a prescription.

Intake

After your dental implant surgery, you should do the following:

• Avoid swishing the liquid around the area of your new implant.

• Drink a lot of liquids.

• Eat soft foods a day after your procedure.

• Do not eat or drink anything hot until the anesthetics fade.

• Finish your antibiotics as directed by your dental surgeon.
  
  

Exercise

Dental surgeons recommend minimal exertion after your dental implant surgery. Strenuous activities can cause agonizing bleeding and throbbing. Since you will eat less than usual after your procedure, it is best to reserve your energy for healing.

Oral Hygiene

The following oral hygiene practices can help your recovery:

• Refrain from drinking alcohol or smoking because of these delay healing.

• Mix a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Gargle this solution four to five times daily for about a week.

• Avoid brushing the implant area because it is still sensitive.

• Once you can brush your teeth, just use a traditional toothbrush.

• Refrain from using toothpicks or dental floss for at least seven days.

• Chew on the other side of your mouth to keep food from clinging to your implant site.
  
  

Be sure to visit your dentist regularly after your procedure. This will ensure the optimal condition of your implants. Here at Dr. Sam’s Premier Dentistry, we will guide you through your aftercare and recovery following your dental implant surgery. You can visit our clinic in Sherman, Texas, for a one-on-one consultation. Please call us at 903-708-6400 if you want to schedule an appointment or ask questions about our dental implant surgery and aftercare guide.