Dental implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth. Because they restore the root of the missing tooth, they allow for additional benefits that you can’t get from other tooth replacement options. However, they require a surgical procedure to be placed precisely and properly into the jawbone. For the best possible chance of success, it’s important that you take some precautionary steps after your dental implant placement surgery. Read on to learn which things you should avoid.
Using Tobacco Products
Dental implants rely on a process called “osseointegration.” This is when the jawbone and titanium implants fuse together. If you are using tobacco products at this time, it can slow down the healing process, increasing your risk of developing an infection. You should stay away from tobacco products for at least a week before and several months after your procedure. This is also a great time to take steps to give up the habit for good!
Rinsing Vigorously
You shouldn’t rinse your mouth too aggressively during the initial recovery period. This can disturb the surgical site and cause additional bleeding. When you clean your teeth, swish mouthwash and water around your mouth gently. You shouldn’t spit either. Instead, just allow the liquid to flow out of your mouth into the sink.
Intense Exercise
Intense physical activity can increase the blood flow and lead to bleeding at the surgical site. For the first few days after your surgery, take it easy and get plenty of rest. Avoid strenuous exercise and get enough sleep each night. This way, your body will have the energy it needs to heal.
Difficult-to-Eat Foods
After your dental implant surgery, you should maintain a soft-food diet for a few days. Stay away from hot and spicy foods as well, as they can aggravate the healing site. Try chewing on the opposite side of your mouth as the implants as much as you can.
Drinking with Straws
When you use a straw to drink, you create a suction in your mouth to pull the liquid up the tube. In addition to displacing the liquid, this suction could dislodge the blood clot that has formed over the implant site. This can lead to a condition known as “dry socket,” which is extremely painful. You should also avoid drinking carbonated beverages, as they can irritate the gum tissue around the implant site.
To help your recovery go as smoothly as possible, you should avoid the things listed above. It will all be worth it when you get to show off your complete smile!
About the Practice
At Attleboro Dental Group, we have a team of seven skilled dentists serving the North Attleborough community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. The entire dental implant process can be completely in-house! To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (774) 331-0260.