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Choosing dental implants to replace missing teeth is an excellent decision for enhancing your smile and preventing future oral health issues. These titanium posts integrate with the jawbone through osseointegration, making them the only permanent tooth replacement option. After your implants are placed, proper care is essential. To ensure a smooth healing process, here are five things to avoid after you undergo dental implant surgery.
#1: Don’t Skip Resting
After dental implant surgery, it’s essential to prioritize rest. Engaging in strenuous activities can elevate your blood pressure, potentially causing the surgical site to bleed. Most patients need at least one to two days of rest post-op, while some may require up to a week for optimal recovery.
#2: Don’t Rinse Your Mouth Out Forcefully
Be gentle when rinsing your mouth. While rinsing helps keep plaque and bacteria away from the surgical site, doing it too forcefully or spitting hard can cause irritation. Use water, a saltwater solution (half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of water), nonalcoholic mouthwash, or a prescription mouthwash to keep the area clean.
#3: Don’t Use a Straw
After oral surgery, stick to a diet of soft foods like smoothies to avoid irritating the implant site. Avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot forming around the implant, causing bleeding and delaying healing. This increases the risk of infection, so refrain from using straws for at least a week after the procedure.
#4: Don’t Eat Hard or Spicy Foods
After dental implant surgery, avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods. Crunchy and hard foods can damage the sensitive tissues around the surgical site, while spicy foods can cause irritation and inflammation. Opt for soft, bland foods like mashed potatoes, applesauce, yogurt, and scrambled eggs. As your mouth heals, you can gradually reintroduce your normal diet.
#5: Don’t Ignore Persistent Pain
It’s normal to experience some swelling, soreness, and irritation for a few days after dental implant surgery. However, if the pain persists and doesn’t improve, contact your dentist immediately. They can examine your mouth to identify any underlying issues that may need treatment.
Dental implant surgery is a significant procedure, so it’s crucial to avoid these five things to ensure proper healing. By taking the right precautions, you’ll soon be enjoying a full, healthy smile once again!
About the Practice
For those considering dental implants to restore their smile, South Florida Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is here to help. Their expert team of experienced dentists is dedicated to providing exceptional care and guiding you through the process of achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. They offer valuable advice on post-dental implant procedure care to ensure your mouth heals correctly. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment or need more information about dental implants, visit the South Florida Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery website for contact details.