Simple-Tips-To-Ensure-A-Smooth-Dental-Implant-Recovery

Over the last few decades, dental implants have changed the lives of many people. It offers tons of benefits and advantages, especially to those who have had dental and oral issues.

The actual procedure does not require too much time, making it one of the pros of getting implants. But, the case is different for the recovery period because it will require effort, time, and even resources.

The time frame varies from one patient to another, and there are several factors to consider. Nevertheless, there are a few things that every individual should observe and follow to secure a smooth and healthy recovery process.

About Dental Implants

Before we proceed to the tips and hacks, let’s take a look at the procedure first.

Dental implants are tooth root replacements. They provide a firm and strong foundation for the replacement teeth.

Dentists start with the tooth root implant, which will be placed into the bone socket of the tooth in question. Once implanted, the process of healing begins. This usually takes up to 12 weeks for the implant to bond to the jawbone.

Afterward, the abutment will be attached to the post. This will securely hold the replacement tooth.

Some Simple Recovery Tips For You

Placing the implant is surgery. This is why it requires a long healing process before the actual placement of the new tooth or teeth.

Here are some of the best tips and pointers that you should do during the recovery period:

 

  • Take it easy

 

After your surgery, ensure that you restrict yourself from doing any strenuous activity. You must, first and foremost, take a rest. Hence, your activities should center on your bed or couch.

The reason behind this is that the more you move around, the more bleeding may happen. Moreover, pushing yourself too hard, say exercises or some chores, may cause unnecessary swelling and pain.

So, as much as possible, take it all easy during the first few days or even weeks. After a while, start to increase the load of your activities, depending on your condition.

 

  • Follow a post-surgery diet

 

Your dentist will give you some guidelines as to what types of foods and drinks you must consume. Generally, though, your diet should focus on soft foods.

These include eggs, fish, chicken, and ground beef. Although, try to lessen your meat consumption during the first few days, and focus on egg variations, as well as cheese, milk, and yogurt.

Add potatoes into the mix, as well. This will provide variation to your post-surgery diet. Soft and smooth-textured fruits, steamed or mashed veggies, oatmeal, and soft bread are also recommendable.

 

  • Avoid smoking

 

Smoking cigarettes does not offer any advantage or benefit to your overall health. But, if you are a smoker and you just had your implant surgery following a dental check-up, you should avoid doing it during your recovery period.

As you may know, cigarettes contain harmful chemicals and toxins. Considering that your mouth has yet to fully recover, these elements may cause danger to your gums and teeth. Also, they may delay the overall healing process.

 

  • Use ice packs

 

After a dental implant procedure, there might be considerable swelling or even bruising in the area of concern, as well as in neighboring regions. They manifest or peak days after the surgery.

While they typically disappear and subside in a matter of days, you can do a few things to minimize the phenomenon. One of them is to apply ice packs as it will help reduce swelling and bruising.

Hold the ice pack to your cheek within the area of concern for five to ten minutes. Check afterward whether the process helps. Otherwise, reapply or reuse the ice pack.

 

  • Regular oral hygiene practices

 

Despite the pain and potential inconveniences of the implant surgery, you must still practice proper oral and dental hygiene. Brush your teeth twice or thrice a day. Floss regularly, and do it properly.

Rinsing your mouth with salt water is also recommendable. This will help you stay away from infections. Do this every few hours.

As for mouthwashes and hydrogen peroxide rinses, take a pause from doing these things for at least two to three weeks. If you are not sure when to resume such activities, consult with your dentist.

 

  • Take your pain medications

 

After your surgery, your dentist will give you the necessary prescriptions for your recovery period. Follow your medication schedule, as well as the rate of consumption.

Usually, the most apparent medications are those that will help you manage the pain. However, you should be keen on when to only take them because you should not depend largely on them.

It is worth noting that dentists usually prescribe such medications only for the first few weeks or days of the recovery period.

 

  • Follow your dentist’s instructions

 

Lastly, but definitely not the least is to follow your dentist’s recommendations. You can ensure a smooth and healthy healing process by listening and heeding the expert’s advice.

If you are not certain about some of the things that you should do, you can always give them a call to confirm. Doing so will also help your dentist to monitor your progress.

Have a Healthy Healing and Recovery Process!

Your recovery period should not only be smooth and easy. It should also be healthy and proper.

The tips and pointers given above will all help you obtain a healthy and convenient healing process. Accordingly, you must apply them in your case, if you want to experience this kind of recovery.