Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard for tooth replacement because they’re the only option that rebuilds missing teeth from the roots up. These small titanium posts are surgically placed directly into the jawbone, where they fuse with the surrounding tissue to replace the missing root structure. After your dental implant placement surgery, it’s essential that you take the proper steps to care for your mouth and prevent infection. Here are five things NOT to do directly after getting dental implants in Jeffersonville to ensure your recovery goes as quickly and smoothly as possible.
1.) Do NOT Skip Resting
Resting is essential for several reasons after dental implant surgery. Any strenuous activity can raise your blood pressure and cause the surgical site to start bleeding. Most patients need at least a day or two of rest after their dental implant surgery, but it’s normal to take up to a week as well.
2.) Do NOT Rinse Your Mouth Out Forcefully
Rinsing your mouth out regularly will help keep plaque and bacteria away from the dental implant site. Dr. Thornton may recommend rinsing with water, saltwater, non-alcoholic store-bought mouthwash, or a prescription mouthwash. No matter which you use, be sure not to swish and spit forcefully. Doing so could irritate the surgical site, so make sure to rinse thoroughly but gently.
3.) Do NOT Use a Straw
After any oral surgery, you’ll want to stick to a diet of soft, nutritious foods and stay hydrated. However, whether you’re enjoying a smoothie, milkshake, or glass of water, don’t drink through a straw! Doing so creates suction in your mouth, which can dislodge the blood clot around the implant site and cause it to bleed. This will set you back on your healing progress and increase your risk of infection, so opt out of using a straw for at least a week or so.
4.) Do NOT Eat Hard or Spicy Foods
When choosing your snacks and meals after dental implant surgery, avoid options that are hard, crunchy, or spicy. Hard or crunchy foods can potentially damage the sensitive healing tissues around the surgical site, and spicy foods can irritate and inflame them. That’s why right after your dental implant surgery, you should stick to bland foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, and applesauce. You can gradually start returning to your normal diet as you heal.
5.) Do NOT Ignore Persistent Pain
You should expect to experience some swelling, soreness, and irritation for at least a few days after your dental implant surgery. However, if your pain doesn’t seem to be easing after a few days, or if you’re worried it may be getting worse, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. They’ll inspect your mouth to see if there are any hidden issues that need to be treated.
About the Practice
Dr. Eric R. Thornton, DMD and his experienced staff at Limestone dentistry are happy to offer high-quality dental care for the smiles of Jeffersonville and the surrounding communities. Whether you need a simple checkup, want to whiten your teeth, or need to get dental implants, you can have everything completed under one roof. To learn more about what to expect from dental implant surgery, they can be contacted online or at (812) 288-9300.