Dental implants have become one of the most popular tooth replacement options because they are the only dental restoration that restores the root and crown (visible portion) of the tooth. Because dental implants replace the root structure, they are not reliant on surrounding teeth for support, and the implant posts provide necessary stimulus for bone and gum tissue retention. Innovations in dental implant techniques and technology have made them increasingly viable, and they now have a 98% success rate. When it comes to successful dental implant placement, your Boston Smile Center team works hard to provide the skill and quality materials necessary for a successful surgical procedure, but after the procedure, the success of implant placement is in your hands.
Dental Implant Aftercare Tips
- Keep cool – in order to manage pain and swelling, apply an ice pack at 20 minute intervals (20 minutes on/20 off) for the first 24 hours.
- Rest – avoid stressful or tiring activities, and get plenty of sleep. Depending on the location and number of dental implants, it may be necessary to be out of work, school, and other routine activities for several days.
- Pain relievers – a prescription pain reliever is typically provided, but many patients are able to manage discomfort using over the counter pain relievers like aspirin and Ibuprofen.
- Oral hygiene – it’s extremely important to protect overall oral health as the surgical site heals. Regular brushing and flossing should continue directly following implant placement, but the surgical site should be avoided.
- Salt water mouth rinse – using a rinse of ¼ salt to ¾ warm water will help the surgical site heal more quickly, and will help prevent infection.
Eating and Drinking Tips
In the days and weeks following dental implant surgery, it’s important to consume foods and beverages that will not irritate the affected area. For the first 24 hours following treatment, consuming liquids is often the best way to ensure the implant site isn’t irritated. Avoid chewing until numbness has worn off, and don’t consume excessively hot foods or drinks. Additionally, patients should avoid using straws, or chewing with the teeth that have been replaced whenever possible. As discomfort decreases, patients should introduce solid foods, but avoid those that may get lodged in the surgical site like seeds, popcorn, and rice. It’s essential that patients get adequate nutrition to maximize healing ability.
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If you’re missing one or more teeth, contact Boston Smile Center to schedule your dental implant consultation today.