Getting dental implants can be both exciting and scary for many people. The scary part of it all is the unknown, not understanding the process. Once they learn what is expected, many are surprised at how straightforward the process is from start to finish. One of the biggest questions that many people have is aftercare and treatment of their new implants.
After having your dental implants placed, it’s your responsibility to ensure you still practice good oral care of your new smile. If you take care of your implants just as you would natural teeth after they are placed, you can expect them to last for many years. You will be given specific instructions on specifically caring for your dental implants after your procedure, but here are some frequently asked questions that may help you figure out what to expect.
You can expect some minor bleeding after you have a dental implant procedure. This is completely normal. Your dentist may give you a gauze pad to help soak up any residual bleeding. They will tell you to bite down firmly on the gauze pad for at least 30 minutes to an hour. You may notice some small bleeding after this. You should just use another gauze pad if needed.
After the dental implants are placed, you will want to avoid rinsing out your mouth, do not attempt to mess with the surgical site by using your tongue or fingers. This can cause additional and unnecessary bleeding. Avoid smoking, using straws, and spitting. These actions can dislodge any blood clots and slow the healing process down.
You will experience some mild discomfort after you have your implants placed. Once the anesthetic wears off, you can take either a prescribed medication from your dentist as instructed or an over-the-counter pain reliever. Most patients will find relief in an OTC pain reliever. Any pain you feel following your procedure should gradually subside in a few days.
Proper oral hygiene is vital to having a successful healing process after your implant procedure. You may be prescribed a chlorhexidine mouthwash by your dentist to rinse your mouth thoroughly. The day after your procedure, you will want to use warm salt water to rinse your mouth. This is typically recommended at least 4 to 5 times a day to help rid your new smile and mouth of any harmful bacteria which could interrupt healing. It’s important to discuss with your dentist their expectations when it comes to brushing your new teeth. Some discourage you from doing it too soon, while others may recommend it. It’s all dependent on your dentist's instructions.
Your new smile is an investment and should be treated as such. It’s important to follow along with your dentists’ instructions on how to provide aftercare following a dental implant placement procedure properly. If you properly care for your new teeth, you can expect them to last for many years.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drzabek.com or call Gregory Zabek Advanced General & Cosmetic Dentistry at (415) 362-1102 for an appointment in our San Francisco office.
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