Be prepared for your dental implant restoration.

Dental implants are ideal for patients who are looking for a permanent restoration for missing teeth. Because of their high success rate, dental implants are a cost-effective solution for maintaining your smile. We understand that feeling prepared for your dental implant restoration aftercare is important to you. Read on for tips about caring for yourself during this exciting process.

Implant Restoration Aftercare

After your dental implant post placement, your primary goal will be to take good care of yourself and the surgical site in which the implant post has been placed. For the first 24 hours, be gentle with your mouth. Swishing, drinking from a straw, and/or smoking should be avoided at this time.

Medications

Begin taking over-the-counter pain medication within an hour after your surgery. You can expect some pain and discomfort for the first few days. If you experience any severe pain or fever, contact our office. You will also have antibiotics that must be taken as prescribed. These are very important to guard against infection and give your dental implant its best chance for successful bone fusion.

Oral Care

Immediately after your procedure, you can brush your natural teeth just as you normally would. You will be given an oral rinse to use in the mornings and at bedtime. This rinse is formulated to guard against infection and is a soothing part of your first aftercare steps. After meals or snacks, make sure to rinse gently with warm saltwater. This will aid in ridding the surgical area of any food debris and will promote healing.

Rest

Getting lots of rest helps our bodies heal. Taking a day off from work is encouraged. Indulge yourself in restful activities that give you joy and promote relaxation. These suggestions have been helpful for patients:

• A soaking bath with a supportive headrest
• Binge-watching TV favorites
• Bedding with soft fibers to encourage sleep
• Meditative sleep sounds
• Aromatherapy relaxation

You know your body and what feels good to you. Enjoy this time and look forward to the smile that awaits you.

Diet

Stay hydrated during your day of rest. You can have cold liquids and brothy soups immediately after surgery. Avoid liquids that are hot, and enjoy liquids that are soothing. After the first 24 hours, you will be able to begin a diet of soft foods. Favorites are ice cream, yogurt, mashed potatoes, creamy soups, and noodles. Avoid any foods with seeds and grains that may become lodged and difficult to remove. You can resume a regular diet when you feel you are ready.

Dental Implant Recovery Process

Understandably, most patients are concerned with how long the recovery process takes. Everyone heals at different rates, and how long will depend on whether you have implant surgery in one step or several phases.

Generally, it takes about six months for full fusion between the post and jawbone. During this time, you can carry on with your normal activities. Continue to focus on your healing by prioritizing good rest and hydration.

Once bone fusion has taken place, Dr. Staley will install an abutment. If you have not already done so, you will also look at samples for your crown. Any design ideas you have will be discussed, and a crown that is expertly matched to your natural teeth will be created.

You can expect full healing from this phase within two weeks. Inspect the gum area around your implant daily during this time. Always feel free to contact our office with any concerns.

What happens after dental implant restoration?

Dental implant restoration can be a lengthy process. The rewards are a durable and permanent solution for missing teeth. Here are some tips for taking care of your dental implants over the long term.

Cleaning

Cleaning implants is very similar to taking care of your natural teeth. Flossing around the abutment is just as important as daily flossing for natural teeth. Partial and full denture implants can be removed and given a bath in cleaning solutions designed for dentures. Avoid abrasive toothpastes and soaking in mouthwash. A water flosser is effective and gentle enough to remove debris between natural teeth and around permanent dental implants without causing any harm.

Dental Visits

Even if you have a full denture dental implant, it is important to keep up with annual visits to your dentist. During these visits, the abutment will be examined for plaque removal and the stability of the implant. The gums around your dental implant may be measured, and X-rays will be taken to check your progress.

If you have natural teeth, your annual cleaning will be done and your bite will be examined for alignment of both your natural teeth and implants. These examinations are done to ensure you are getting the best performance from your dental implants.

This is also a great opportunity to discuss any future plans you have for restorative treatments. Dental technology is always advancing, so talk to your dentist about any expanded services and the latest in restorative dentistry.

Family Dentistry With Experience in Dental Implant Restoration

Thanks to continuing advancements in dental technology, maintaining your smile and long-term dental health is affordable and an exciting experience that’s full of possibilities.

Staley Dental is a full-service dental office. Dr. Staley practices dentistry for children and is a gentle pediatric dentist. Little ones and adolescents can enjoy a soothing atmosphere and fun examinations.

Looking for an excellent family dentist in Boise, Idaho? Your comfort and dental health are important to us. We are here to help with all of your family’s dental needs, and we specialize in dental implant restoration and aftercare.