Three million Americans have dental implants, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). Are you about to add to this number? You're not alone. That figure is growing by 500,000 people each year, notes the AAID. If you're about to get an implant, knowing what to do after your surgery is essential when it comes to recovery.
Ice It
It's normal to have some swelling after implant surgery (if you have excessive swelling, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately). To keep swelling at a minimum, ice your face. Place the ice in a zipper baggie, seal it, and wrap it in a thin towel before putting it on your face. Use the ice as needed for the first two days after your surgery.
Take Your Meds
The oral surgeon may have prescribed two different types of medications for you. It's possible that they'll send you home with a prescription pain medicine. This will help to reduce the discomfort you may feel. You may also get an antibiotic to prevent infection. If your surgeon doesn't feel that prescription-strength pain pills are necessary, they may advise you to take an over the counter medication. Follow your dental pro's directions when it comes to taking these medications for pain management. Keep in mind, your body and situation are different than anyone else's. Never take a family member's or friend's pain pills and never use a different dosage than the doctor tells you to.
Food Choice
Proper (and adequate) nutrition can help to speed the healing process along. Even though you might not feeling like eating or drinking right now, you need to keep yourself healthy. Avoid anything that is chewy, sticky or otherwise hard to chew. Also, avoid hot foods and liquids. Choose soft, easy-to-chew foods such as yogurt, soup (only after it's cooled) or gelatin. It's likely that you'll only need to eat this way for the day after your surgery. As soon as your mouth feels well enough to chew, return to your normal healthy diet.
Less Activity
Your surgery is over and you feel fine. The bleeding is about to stop and you think you might want to go for a jog. Wait. Even if you feel fine, physical activity can aggravate bleeding and make it worse. Take a day off or wait until your mouth has healed before getting back to your normal activity level. If you're in doubt, ask your oral surgeon when you're allowed to return to your exercise routine.
Dental implants can complete your smile and give you a healthy mouth. Proper aftercare is necessary when it comes to your overall healing. For more healing tips, talk to a dentist like those at Smile City.
