After undergoing dental implant surgery, you can get a brand-new start with new dental restorations. However, before the final restoration is placed, you need to go through a healing and recovery phase, during which the implant will fuse with the jawbone. Ideally, you need to follow the implant specialist’s tips to ensure a successful recovery.
Tips for recovery
Dental implant surgery involves the placement of implant posts into the jawbone to support a new dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge or denture. The implant functions as the new root and integrates with the jawbone for stability. The following are tips for smooth healing and recovery.
Bleeding and swelling
After the surgery, the implant specialist will apply a gauze pad on the surgical site. Patients need to apply gentle force on the gauze pad and take it off after about an hour. If the bleeding has not stopped, reapply the gauze with a new one that has been dampened with few drops of cold water. Change the gauze every 30 to 60 minutes until the bleeding stops. It is normal to experience bleeding and redness in the saliva for up to 24 hours after surgery.
Swelling is normal and may occur after about 48 hours following the surgery. Placing an ice pack on the cheek overlying the surgery site may help alleviate the swelling. Preferably, the ice should be applied on and off every 20 minutes. A heating pad or warm towel may reduce swelling that occurs after the first 24 hours following surgery.
Pain management
At the end of the surgery, the patient will experience numbness at the surgery site. Dental implant surgery should typically not cause a high degree of pain. However, the implant specialist may prescribe medications to help reduce soreness after surgery. Patients need to get their prescriptions soon after the surgery. Taking pain medication before the anesthesia wears off may help limit the pain.
Diet
It is advisable to drink fluids after implant surgery. Patients also need to avoid hot foods, as it may lead to bleeding or pain around the surgery site. They have to stick to a diet of liquids and soft foods for a few hours after the surgery. Unless otherwise stated by the dentist, patients will be able to resume their regular diet two or three days after the surgery. Nutrition is essential for healing. Patients also experience fewer side effects caused by pain meds or antibiotics if the drugs are ingested after meals.
Oral hygiene
Good oral hygiene is vital for healing. Patients can brush their teeth and the abutment, but they must avoid vigorous brushing. The dentist may also recommend a mouth rinse to keep the mouth clean.
Final note
A dental implant is a smart investment for those who need permanent tooth replacement. They restore confidence and allow you to smile, eat and talk. Throughout the restoration process, the implant specialist will try to keep you as comfortable as possible. If symptoms such as bleeding and swelling persist for more than a few days, contact the dentist as soon as possible.
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