Whether you’re getting dental implants to replace a missing tooth or fixing your smile, recovery can be challenging.
The thought of being able to enjoy your favorite foods may be exciting, so don’t let the excitement become overshadowed by the length of the recovery period.
Because dental implants must osseointegrate, or fuse with the surrounding bone, in order to be successful, the recovery period will vary from 3 to 6 months.
To help with recovery, there are a few tips you can follow which will ensure that no complications arise and speed up the process.
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Eat Soft and Nutritious Food
With any oral surgery, the first 48 are the most important.
It’s advised to stay away from any hot and spicy food for the first couple of days since they can cause bleeding or irritability. For the first week or so, stick to eating foods that require little to no chewing, as jaw movement will also cause irritation and discomfort.
As the incision begins to heal, you can gradually begin to eat softer foods that require minimal chewing.
It’s important to remember to eat food that’s nutritious, not only soft. Your body is in need of proper nutrients after dental implant surgery to decrease the risk of postoperative complications and speed up healing time.
Rest Your Body
One of the easiest and best things to do to help your body heal after dental implant surgery is to rest.
It’s important to remember not to push yourself too much, as it can increase your recovery time. If you start feeling tired, it’s your body’s way of telling you to take it easy and slow down.
Although it’s recommended not to participate in any arduous activities for the first few days after the surgery, it’s best to stay away from physical exertion until you’re positive that you’re feeling better. That being said, try to avoid participating in activities where objects fly at your face.
Rinse With Warm Salt Water
If you’ve ever had a tooth removed, then it’s likely your dentist recommended you do salt water rinses throughout the day.
Not only do these rinses significantly reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth without disturbing the incision, but many have found it quite soothing as well.
To make a saltwater rinse, simply add one teaspoon of salt to 8 ounces of warm water and dissolve the salt. Once everything is mixed together, gently swish the drink in your mouth for 30 seconds and then spit it out.
Avoid Smoking At All Costs
Smoking under regular circumstances is incredibly harmful to your overall health, but smoking after a dental implant surgery will critically affect your chances of having a successful recovery.
Your bones and oral tissues need a steady flow of oxygen to heal properly, so when you smoke, the nicotine heavily restricts the oxygen flow, forcing the body to take longer to recover.
It’s also been found that nicotine and tobacco negatively affect osseointegration, increasing the chances of having implant failure.
Keep Swelling Down With Ice Packs
It’s common to experience bruising or swelling after any oral surgery. Each person will experience swelling differently, some having their entire face swell while others have very minimal swelling.
Using cold compresses after surgery is an effective way of decreasing the swelling and pain, but it should be noted that keeping an ice pack on your face for too long can cause ice burns.
To avoid damaging your skin, apply the compress for a maximum of 20 minutes. Wait for another 20 minutes before reapplying.
Dental Implants At Carleton Place
Not only are missing teeth unsightly, but they can lead to several oral health complications.
Dentistry has become more advanced throughout the years, creating a solution to replace missing teeth, besides having dentures or bridges. Dental implants are a permanent solution that will give you back the freedom to enjoy all the foods you desire.
Our dental professionals at Costello Family dentistry are here to help you restore your confidence in your smile.
Get in touch with us to learn more about our dental implant options and book your appointment today.
