Dental implants are a preferred tooth replacement option, as they offer so many benefits that you can’t experience from dentures and dental bridges. However, it is crucial that you are caring for them properly to ensure that they remain in good shape. With excellent maintenance, dental implants can last for several decades or even the rest of your life! Here are some of the do’s and don’ts of dental implant care.
The Do’s of Dental Implants
Do Get Plenty of Rest
Oral surgery may not involve any of your major organs, but it still requires that you get plenty of rest so the area heals properly and quickly. Remember to plan ahead as your dental implant placement procedure is approaching. Allow yourself a few days to take it easy and plan to relax.
Do Take Medication as Directed
You will likely be prescribed some pain medication to be taken for a few days after your surgery. This will help to relieve any discomfort and aid in reducing inflammation. Be sure to take all medications as directed by your dentist.
Do Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
You won’t be able to brush or floss immediately after your procedure, but there are other ways for you to keep your smile clean. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and clean your mouth with a warm saltwater rinse. Resume brushing as directed by your dentist.
The Don’t of Dental Implants
Don’t Resume Your Normal Diet
After your dental implant placement surgery, it is in your best interest to stick to softer foods, like soup, yogurt, ice cream, pudding, mashed potatoes, applesauce, and scrambled eggs. This will help you avoid discomfort and allow the area to heal more quickly.
Don’t Engage in Bad Habits
If you smoke or drink alcohol, you should refrain from doing so immediately after your procedure. Both of these things can slow down the healing process and even cause complications. You should wait until after the initial recovery phase of your treatment. Of course, this is also a great time to give up these habits for good if you choose to do so.
Don’t Strain Yourself
If you like to work out regularly, this is certainly a time to give your body a break. Getting exercise is excellent for your health, but too much physical strain on your body can affect healing at the treatment site. This way, you can avoid unnecessary swelling and bleeding.
You will have your smile back before you know it! However, you should carefully follow your post-op instructions for the best chance of success. You’ll be showing off a full set of pearly whites in no time!
About the Practice
At Silver Creek Dentistry, we have a team of four experienced dentists serving patients in the Ripon community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. We can complete the entire dental implant process at our practice, so there is no need for patients to visit an unfamiliar office. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (920) 748-7200.