Recognizing The Benefits of Dental Implants

Aftercare of your dental implants ensures the surgical area heals without complications. As a result, you get the solid foundation needed to support dental implants. Discover appropriate care measures to observe after a dental implant procedure.

1. Maintain Top Notch Oral Hygiene 

The ideal way to prevent infection is to keep your mouth clean. Use a chlorhexidine mouthwash if your dentist recommends it. In the first few days after the implant procedure, you will need warm salt water rinse after meals. Nonetheless, be gentle with the mouthwash, and don't swirl vigorously.

Based on your dentist's recommendations, you may have to clean your teeth and healing abutment with a toothbrush immediately after the procedure. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be careful around the dental implant to prevent damage that may cause soreness.

2. Eat Nutritious Food and Drinks

Don't eat until the local anesthetic fades off. Then, after sedation or general anesthesia, start with liquids. Nonetheless, avoid hot drinks while you're still numb. As the numbness wears off, you can progress to solid fuels.

You may face challenges with solid food intake for the first few days after surgery. Yet, you must eat nutritious food to get more energy and heal faster. Opt for softer foods until you adjust and chew away from the dental implant site. Foods to avoid include seeded fruit and popcorn, which can stick and cause infection.

3. Complete the Antibiotics Dosage

Your dentist may prescribe or give you antibiotics to take after the procedure. Antibiotic therapy prevents infection on or around your bone graft and dental implant. Dentists are more likely to prescribe antibiotics if you are an older adult or have a weak immune system.

Follow the dosage directions and continue with the medication until you finish the medicine. If you react to the drug, e.g., you get a skin rash or swollen tongue, discontinue use and consult your dentist.

4. Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol

Avoid tobacco and alcohol since such substances harm your dental implants and slow down the healing process. Don't smoke tobacco for at least two months after the procedure.

Alcohol and tobacco usage also increases bacteria within your mouth. The bacteria can find a way into your employee site and cause an infection. Smokers are also at a higher risk of Peri-implantitis, which deteriorates the bone if left untreated.

Conclusion

Proper follow-up care after dental implant surgery prevents infections and ensures you heal faster. On the flip side, insufficient oral hygiene can harm the long-term success of your dental implant. So, practice good care and visit your dentist for regular checkups and examinations.