5 Tips for Dental Implant Aftercare

When a tooth is missing, a dental implant remains one of the most effective options for replacing the tooth. Dental implants offer patients beautiful, natural-looking and fully-functional teeth that are comparable to natural teeth.

However, patients must take care of their new teeth and existing teeth to prevent future issues. The dentist will provide the necessary guidance and monitor the patient every step of the way. This article discusses five important aftercare tips for patients after undergoing the dental implant procedure. This will ensure fast recovery without complications.

5 Aftercare tips for dental implants

The following are ways to take care of the teeth after a dental implant procedure:

1. Pay attention to every reaction

The dentist will tell the patient to prepare for minor swelling, which can be alleviated by applying an ice pack to the affected area. Typically, over-the-counter painkillers can help with any sort of discomfort, and the dentist will provide recommendations on which meds to take. The vital point is to pay attention to the body and watch every reaction. If the body reacts in any way different from what the dentist explained, patients must reach out promptly to the dentist for advice or treatment.

2. Avoid hot foods and beverages

Hot drinks and foods can hurt the soft tissues of the oral cavity, especially since sensitivity is often lost temporarily due to the administration of anesthesia. Also, the gums need time to heal after the dental implant surgery, so patients need to avoid hot foods and drinks to relieve stress on the tissues. The dentist will advise patients to drink more cold water because it accelerates the recovery of the treated area and provides relief.

3. Avoid brushing too vigorously

In the first few days after the surgery, the gum around the dental implant will feel somewhat sore and sensitive. Brushing is important, but patients must wait for a few days before brushing the areas around the dental implants. Ideally, a soft-bristled toothbrush is better to prevent damage to the treated area. Patients should brush gently and carefully.

4. Keep the mouth clean

To keep the mouth clean and free of bacteria, swishing saline water in the mouth for a few seconds can be highly effective. It is better not to swish the water vigorously. Instead, patients should keep the water in their mouth for some seconds. This will speed up the rate of recovery and complement the patient’s other oral hygiene efforts.

5. Switch gradually to solid foods

At first, it may be hard to eat solid foods for some days after the dental implant procedure ends. However, once normal tooth function starts to return, patients can gradually begin to incorporate solid foods into their diet. Brushing and rinsing the mouth after every meal is necessary to ensure complete healing.

Final note

The dental implant recovery process is a phase every patient must undergo before their new restoration becomes fully functional. Following the dentist’s advice for aftercare will help ensure complete recovery.

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