Getting dental implants can be a big procedure. Going under the knife (whether you receive a local anesthetic or elect to undergo sedation dentistry) is serious. This means that patients who undergo dental implants must be prepared before and after the procedure. At Arizona Smile Designers, we strive to help patients both inside and outside the office. Learn how you can take care of yourself before the big day!
6 Things To Know About Getting Dental Implants
- Follow Instructions- The first (and most important thing) to know is to follow your instructions from your dentist or surgeon before anything else. Your dentist may tell you to avoid brushing and mouthwash at first since your mouth might be too sensitive. They may also ask you to avoid brushing the area of the wound. Instead, they may recommend rinsing with salt water using eight ounces of warm water mixed with a 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Take It Easy After Surgery- Before the surgery, make sure to leave enough time to plan. This can mean letting your school/ workplace know that you need to take a couple of days off work. For the pain, they may give you sedatives after the procedure. Therefore, you shouldn’t be driving, so make sure to have a family member or friend support you afterward. Also, avoid strenuous activities that could dislodge blood clots and lead to bleeding. When it’s time to go to bed, elevate your head using extra pillows.
- Manage Pain, Swelling, & Discomfort- After the procedure, it’s normal to experience minimal bleeding, swelling, and bruising. For care, apply ice to your jaw for 30 minutes, remove for 20 minutes, and repeat for the first 24 hours. This should help the swelling go down after a few days. For pain, take over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers as directed. If it does become worse (such as if you notice pus, extreme bleeding, or you have a fever) it could be an infection. Let your provider know immediately. Your provider may prescribe an entire course of antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection.
- Change Your Diet- Stick to eating soft foods, such as yogurt, soup, applesauce, oatmeal, and steamed veggies. Avoid drinking hot and bubbly liquids and spicy foods for a few days following oral surgery. After a week, you should be able to return to a normal diet. Most of all, avoid biting and chewing on hard and sticky foods in the area of the implant until it is fully healed.
- Keep Up Oral Hygiene- Go back to brushing and flossing when your dentist/ surgeon approves. Also, you can begin gently rinsing several times a day with a warm saltwater solution, especially after eating. After a few days, you may need to carefully clean around the implant and abutment (if attached) using a Q-tip and an appropriate cleaning solution, rather than a toothbrush.
- Schedule A Follow-Up- Make a follow-up appointment once you can. Go in and see your dentist post-surgery. Your dentist will be able to check to see if the wound is healing properly.
Get Quality Dental Care Today From Arizona Smile Designers!
Whether you’re looking to get dental implants, or just need a good dental cleaning, contact us at Arizona Smile Designers today! Our dentists and staff are equipped to give patients expert care in Cottonwood, AZ. Schedule a consultation now! If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to our practice today! We can’t wait to help you restore and protect your smile!
