How to Care for Your Mouth After Dental Implant Surgery

You have made the decision to replace your missing teeth with dental implants! They have so many advantages. Not only do they act just like your natural teeth, but they also prevent future oral health issues and premature aging by maintaining the integrity of the jawbone. However, you need to allow them time to heal after your surgery before you can just go start eating all of your favorite foods again. Here is some useful information on dental implant aftercare for your implant placement surgery.

What Can I Expect Immediately After Surgery?

Some bleeding and swelling are normal for the first 24 hours after surgery. Bleeding can be controlled by biting on gauze for about thirty minutes. Swelling can be minimized by applying an ice back to the wound continuously. After the anesthesia wears off, you should be taking pain medication. Over the counter medications, like Tylenol or Ibuprofen are appropriate to take. Take all prescribed medication as directed by your dentist.

How Do I Care for the Surgical Site?

Proper oral hygiene maintenance during this time is a must! The most common reason for implant failure is infections that occur after surgery. Fortunately, these are preventable with proper oral care. You should brush your teeth as your normally would be avoid the area of the new dental implant. Rinse your mouth with a glass of warm water with a teaspoon of salt after every meal. This helps to remove food debris and prevent infections from occurring. Remember to avoid rinsing vigorously. This could interfere with the healing process.

What Should I Be Eating During the Healing Process?

Once your dental implant has fused with the jawbone and the surgical site is completely healed, you can eat pretty much anything you want! However, during the first few days after surgery it is important to follow the correct diet. First of all, try to chew on the side of your mouth where your natural teeth are and avoid hot foods and drinks for at least a week. Stick to soft foods for as long as you feel post-operative symptoms. Remember that it’s important to stay hydrated during this time but try not to swish any liquids over the surgical site when you are drinking.

What Else Do I Need to Know About the Healing Process?

Here are a few extra things that you should be keeping in mind after your dental implant surgery:

• Avoid using a straw after your procedure
• Don’t smoke for at least two months following your surgery
• After the placement of your implants, abstain from alcohol consumption for at least 72 hours
• Get at least eight hours of sleep each night
• Schedule a check-up so your dentist can assess the healing process

It’s important to take things slow for a little while after your implants are surgically placed. However, you will have a fully functional smile in just a matter of time!

About the Practice

At West Hartford Dental Group, a general dentist and prosthodontist work side by side to provide everything patients need, including dental implants, under one roof. Dr. Ukti Phadnis earned her Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry from the UConn School of Dental Medicine and she has completed advanced training focused on dental implants. Dr. Ajay Dhingra is one of very few board-certified Prosthodontists in Connecticut and has expertise in planning and restoring dental implants. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (860) 236-4249.