Dental Implant Can Change Your Life
Smiling provides your body with multiple benefits, and you’re more likely to do this if you have a complete smile. If you want to replace missing teeth or have recently received dental implants, it’s important to know how to care for them starting from the second you leave our office. Discover our guide to post-operative care.
Post-Operative Care for a Successful Recovery
The first two weeks after your implant placement are a crucial time in the healing process. However, you should be the most cautious during the first 48 hours of recovery. Your mouth is likely to be tender and sore, and your gums will be most vulnerable to bacteria during this time.
Dr. Stovall recommends that you do the following to how your dental implants to heal:
- Rinse your mouth with salt water at least twice a day
- Avoid spitting or using a straw
- Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol
- Eat a soft diet (including liquids and soft foods such as mashed potatoes)
- Limit physical activity
Your Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime
With proper after-care treatment, your dental implants can last a lifetime. Since they’re directly attached to your jawbone, implants stimulate growth while protecting your gums from infection. You’re likely to experience the life-changing effects of dental implants including a dramatic boost of confidence and improved oral health.
Choosing Dental Care Products
Once your implants have completely healed, missing teeth no longer have to hold you back and you can live without restrictions. However, choosing the right products to care for your implants is just as important as how often you clean them Certain oral care products can be too rough on your porcelain restorations, causing them to become scratched and damaged.
While brushing twice a day, Dr. Stovall recommends using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. She also suggests nylon-coated floss, as it glides in between your teeth easier than other types of floss. Lastly, she tells her patients to choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid drying their mouths out.
Schedule Regular Follow-Up Appointments
Visiting Dr. Stovall at least every six months is an essential part of maintaining your beautiful smile. She’ll examine your implants and make sure your gums are still healthy.
Contact us at (919) 583-7081 or fill out our contact form below for more information about dental implants and how to care for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take for my dental implants to heal?
Each patient’s mouth is different, so there is no uniform healing process. Dr. Stovall may prescribe pain medication for the 48 hours following your procedure. Your mouth and gums will probably feel the sorest during this time.
However, the first two weeks are still essential for letting your dental implants heal. If any swelling, bleeding, or discomfort worsens, contact our office as soon as possible.
What can I eat after dental implant surgery?
Dental implants require special care in the first two weeks following your procedure. Dr. Stovall recommends eating soft foods during this time. This allows your implants to bond securely to your jawbone.
Here’s a list of nutritious soft foods to try while you’re healing:
- Smoothies
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Eggs
- Cooked vegetables