Undergoing your dental implant placement procedure is just the first step towards having a restored smile that you can treat as your own. However, in order to ensure that they are successful and you don’t experience a dental implant failure, you need to be especially careful when returning home after surgery. Here are some helpful tips regarding dental implant aftercare in Peabody so you can successfully get your smile back.
Control the Bleeding
It’s possible for bleeding to continue from the implant site for up to 72 hours after your implant is placed. In order to reduce it, bite down on gauze for about an hour. You can continue doing this every 6-10 hours as necessary. Another method is to use a moist black tea bag to bite down on. This makes it easier for the area to clot.
Minimize Swelling
It isn’t uncommon to have swelling and bruising the day after surgery. If it is bothering you, place an ice pack on your face for about 15-20 minutes. Also remember to stay hydrated and sleep in a propped-up position.
Manage Pain and Discomfort
Pain should ease a few days after surgery. Until then, use an over the counter painkiller that is recommended by your dentist. Tylenol is a common, effective option. Be sure to take the medication as directed. You should begin taking it just before the anesthesia wears off.
Get Plenty of Rest
Many patients are able to return to work after a day or two, however strenuous physical activity should be avoided for about a week, so if your job has lots of physical demands, it is best that you take a few days off. Ensure that you are getting at least 8 hours of sleep each night.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
It’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene during the healing period. If you aren’t keeping the area clean, you are more likely to experience an infection which is the number one cause of dental implant failures. Continue brushing and flossing your teeth as normal but avoid the site of the procedure. After every meal for about a week, you should rinse out your mouth with a glass of warm water with a teaspoon of salt added in order to remove food debris.
Watch What You Eat
During the initial healing process, chew on the side of your mouth where your natural teeth are and avoid hot foods and drinks. When you drink, don’t use a straw and be careful not to swish liquids over the surgical site. Avoiding hard, crunchy foods is important for as long as you feel post-operative symptoms.
Don’t Smoke or Drink Alcoholic Beverages
Both of these activities have a negative impact on the healing process. You need to refrain from smoking for at least two months after your surgery. Abstain from alcohol consumption for 72 hours after the procedure at the very least.
Have a Checkup
You should see your dentist in Peabody again not long after the placement procedure. This way, they will be able to check and see how the healing process is going and give you additional recommendations.
By taking these steps after your dental implant surgery, you can help to improve its chances of being successful. You will have your smile restored in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Spiro Saati earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine at Boston Goldman School of Dental Medicine and has been serving patients in Peabody, MA ever since. He is a member of numerous organizations including the American Dental Society, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Academy of Osseointegration. Dr. Saati and his team offer the full dental implant placement procedure and restoration process at one convenient location. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call (978) 531-2185.