Dental implants are synthetic tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. There are things you should know about the dental implant surgery recovery process.
1. Side Effects after Treatment
Complications after dental implant surgery are extremely minimal; the process is extremely safe for patients. However, it is important to note that side effects may occur. Pain is one of the commonly reported effects. A dental surgeon uses anesthesia for a pain-free surgical operation. But what happens after surgery? You may experience pain a few days after surgery. Fortunately, over-the-counter medications can provide much-needed relief from pain. If you experience pain, consult your dentist for recommended medications. Other common side effects include oozing, swelling, and persistent bleeding.
2. Recovery Time
Generally, the recovery time after dental implant surgery takes no longer than 7 days. You should start to see significant improvements within this timeframe. However, some patients may experience a longer recovery time due to many factors. These include the number of implants you get and the type of surgical procedure. For instance, bone grafting and sinus lift dental implants may extend the recovery time required. If you had a successful surgery with little or no complications after treatment, your recovery time should be between 5 – 7 days. If the pain lasts longer than this, consult your dentist.
3. Follow-up Appointments
Make sure you follow your dentist’s instructions after surgery. During this period, you will likely be asked to avoid tobacco use during recovery. Failing to follow instructions will make the healing process slower, thus extending the required recovery time.
Also, you will have to schedule appointments with the dentist after surgery. The follow-up appointments are scheduled to ensure that the healing process is going as planned. If there are any complications, they will be attended to at this time. If you have any questions, the best time to ask them will be during your follow-up appointments. If you are interested, you may do additional research at the Build Your Smile website for more information.
4. Foods You Shouldn’t Eat
Following the right diet is another vital way to make speed up the healing process after dental implant surgery. There are some foods to avoid after surgery, including hot and spicy foods as they can cause irritation and discomfort. Also, you will have to avoid alcohol intake. Drinking alcohol will likely extend your recovery time.
In addition, you shouldn’t eat foods that require a lot of chewing. Avoid food that may likely get stuck in the incision site to prevent the risk of infection. Here are some recommended foods to eat following dental implant surgery – baked beans, avocado, rice, noodles, eggs, smoothies, etc.
5. Caring for Your Teeth
Try as much as possible not to disturb the incision site when brushing your teeth. Brush your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush before going to bed the night after your surgery. Rinse with salt water at least twice daily 24 hours after surgery.
Follow these tips and your body will naturally heal itself over time after dental implant surgery. Following your dentist’s instructions and taking enough time to rest will speed up the healing process. If you experience any unusual pain or discomfort, consult your dentist immediately.
