Recovering from Getting Dental Implants

Choosing dental implants is a great idea if you are looking into your tooth-replacement options because you are missing one or more of your teeth. This option is one that offers benefits that other replacement options do not, which is why so many patients are choosing implants to replace their missing teeth. Other replacement options include bridges and dentures.

The dental implant procedure

Wondering how dental implants are placed in your mouth? In order for you to experience the benefits that come with choosing this tooth-replacement option, you need to undergo a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The procedure requires a dental professional to make a small incision in your gums in order to insert the implant into your jawbone. It takes anywhere between three and six months to heal from the process, after which a dental crown is placed over the implant, making for a brand new tooth.

Recovering from getting dental implants

The list below includes information on the recovery process after a dental patient gets one or more dental implants placed in their mouth.

Keeping the area clean, taking antibiotics

During the recovery period, patients need to keep the area clean as this allows it to heal properly. They can gently brush their teeth but need to stay away from the surgical area. Rinsing the mouth with salt water a few times a day will help to disinfect the area. Patients will also need to take a round of antibiotics in order to prevent any infection.

Dealing with swelling, bleeding, pain

Patients can expect to experience some swelling, bleeding and various levels of pain after undergoing dental implant surgery. In order to deal with any swelling, they need to rest, keep their head elevated for the first couple of days and can use an ice pack. In order to deal with any bleeding, which typically occurs during the first 24 hours, gauze pads can be placed over the area in order to help lessen any blood flow. Patients who are experiencing pain can take over-the-counter pain relievers to lessen their pain.

Suggested foods to eat

It is important for patients to eat soft foods until they feel comfortable eating foods that are harder. A few suggested soft foods include oatmeal, yogurt, scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, broth, fish, pudding, rice and any fruits and vegetables that are considered to be soft. It is also important for patients to drink plenty of water in order to stay hydrated, which can help them recover faster.

What not to do

Dental patients should avoid consuming anything that is hot or cold for the first couple of days after surgery. It is also important to not touch the area, with fingers or the tongue, as this can get in the way of the area healing as quickly as it should. It is also essential for patients to not smoke during their healing period.

Are you in need of tooth replacement?

Are dental implants the right choice for you? Now that you understand more about the dental implant process and what you need to go through in order to recover from the process, have you made a decision on whether or not this is the right tooth replacement option for you? Understand that when you are missing teeth, choosing a replacement option as soon as possible is necessary.

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