A Simple Guide to Taking Care of Your Dental Implants
You’ve taken a big step and decided to replace those missing teeth with dental implants. But now you are a bit nervous about how to care for them. Don’t worry; dental implants are as easy to care for as your natural teeth. But, there are a few things to keep in mind during the first few weeks after surgery.
The Day of Surgery
Yes, dental implants require surgery, and that means you are going to feel a bit sore and possibly experience some swelling. That is why you will need to take some special precautions to care for the site in the first 24 hours. Here are some basic tips tor remember:
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling
- Take any medications that your dentist prescribes
- Get plenty of rest
- Gently brush your other teeth the evening after surgery – but avoid the implant area
- Do your best from disturbing the surgical area with either your fingers or your tongue
The Days Following Surgery
After the first 24 hours or so, you should begin to feel less sore. While you can begin to resume a normal diet (including hot foods and drinks) on the second day, remember that the surgical site is going to be vulnerable, so avoid hard chewing or eating items that may irritate the area.
Beginning on day two, you can start to brush the implant. Just be gentle and only use a soft bristled brush. Flossing too should be done with care. Be sure to follow all aftercare instructions given to you by your dentists including avoiding chewing on the implant for the first several months.
Long-Term Maintenance
Caring for your dental implants is going to be a lot like taking care of your natural teeth once the area has healed. While brushing, flossing and rinsing with a good mouthwash is all that is really needed, many dental professionals urge their patients to also use gum stimulation to help the gums heal more quickly and a water irrigator to help rinse away built up plaque along the gum line.
In addition to establishing a daily oral care routine, it is also important to visit your dentist at least twice a year (some patients will need to come in more often),to ensure that the implants are being well cared for. To find out more about how to care for dental implants, make an appointment with professionals at Great Lakes Dental today.