If you are one of the millions of Americans who suffer from tooth loss, it is more possible than ever to restore your smile. One of the most popular options is dental implants. They are a reliable, lifelike, and durable way to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike other restorations, they replicate your natural teeth, from root to crown, by implanting titanium, biocompatible steel posts into your jaw. While this is a long-lasting solution for a complete smile, there will be a bit of recovery after surgery. Here are four tips to help you during the healing process.
#1: Make Rest a Priority
You should plan on recuperating fully at home for at least one or two days after your dental implant procedure. It is also essential to avoid any strenuous activity that could lead to increased bleeding, swelling, and pain in your mouth. Set aside any physical exertion and vigorous exercise for about a week to allow your mouth to fully recover without any agitation. Make sure to get a full night’s sleep for the first few days. It’s time to just rest and relax to give your mouth a chance to recuperate during the initial healing process.
#2: Maintain a Proper Oral Health Routine
Caring for dental implants includes proper oral hygiene maintenance during the healing period. The soft tissues around your implant need a clean environment to recover and minimize the chances of any infection to occur. You may continue to brush as usual, just be sure to be gentle around the surgical areas. You can also rinse with warm salt water several times a day, as it is a natural antibacterial wash.
#3: Follow a Soft-Food Diet
You will want to be as gentle with your mouth as possible. Eating soft foods will allow the healing process to continue peacefully in order to heal completely. It will take some time before you will be ready to handle hard or crunchy foods again so stock up on your favorite soft foods. Some great options are scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, applesauce, canned fruit, oatmeal, and protein shakes. These won’t require much chewing, as well as provide you with many nutrients.
#4: Keep Helpful Recovery Items Nearby
It is helpful to keep a handy basket of recovery items nearby. You can keep your prescribed medications in it, as well as some over-the-counter pain relievers. These can minimize any discomfort, as well as keep swelling and throbbing at a minimum. Having an icepack available to place on your cheeks will also help, too. Staying hydrated is important during the recovery process, too, so be sure to have bottles of water or electrolyte drinks handy.
Dental implants can be life-changing if you are missing any of your teeth. While they do require some extra care during the recovery period, your complete and long-lasting smile will be worth every minute of it!
About the Practice
Turning Leaf Dental has an experienced and passionate team who is eager to help you achieve your best smile. They provide customized, high-quality dental care catered to your unique needs. Using state-of-the-art technology, they offer a full range of services, including dental implants. They even have Saturday appointments available to ensure a smooth treatment process! To schedule a consultation or an appointment, contact them through their website or call (617) 536-5182.