Dental Implant Aftercare Guide: What to Expect and Care Instructions

Right after getting a dental implant, there are certain things you’ll want to do and not do. Discover the dental implant aftercare guide here.

After months or even years of debating, you’ve decided to take the plunge and finally get dental implant surgery.

While dental implants are a routine and fairly simple procedure, they still require surgery and should be taken just as seriously as any other surgical procedure. And just like any other surgery, you’ll need to follow a strict aftercare regimen.

Keep reading to learn all about dental implants as well as dental implant aftercare that you should be following. 

What Are Dental Implants?

But first, let’s talk about what dental implants actually are.

Dental implants are artificial teeth that are inserted into your jaw with a metal screw, or connector. The connector will act as a root system for your new implant, binding with your natural jawbone.

There are many benefits of dental implants, some of which might surprise you. 

It’s important to have a conversation with your doctor to ensure you fully understand the ins and outs of dental implants, as well as the surgical procedure and aftercare.

What to Expect After Surgery

As we mentioned, dental implant surgery, although routine, is still surgery. Your doctor will need to make an incision and connect your new implant to your jaw bone. You’re going to experience a few side effects.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Pain
• Bruising

Your doctor will likely prescribe medication to help you cope with and reduce these symptoms.

At Home Implant Care

You’re probably going to be sore for a while after your surgery, but it’s important to continue brushing and flossing your teeth as you normally would. Bacteria don’t stop growing and you shouldn’t stop brushing.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush for the first couple weeks to help avoid irritation.

It’s also just as important to floss around your new implant, but you can give yourself a few days to heal first.

If you feel like your new implant is too sensitive to brush or floss you can always use an alcohol-free mouthwash for a few days. This will help to keep the bacteria at bay until you can give yourself a proper cleaning.

Professional Dental Implant Aftercare

Even if you’re following a strict implant care regimen, you’ll still need to visit your dentist for routine cleanings. 

Food particles can find their way into small crevices of your implant, as well as work their way underneath your gums. Standard brushing and flossing isn’t always enough to dig out these food particles.

If left there for too long, bacteria can start to grow and rot out your new implant. Of course, we want to avoid this at all costs. Don't slack on the professional cleanings. 

Love Your Smile Again with Dental Implants

Implant surgery is a safe, simple procedure, and when you follow a healthy dental implant aftercare regimen, you should glide right through it. 

Whether you struggled with improper oral care in the past or fell victim to disease, it’s vital that you develop a healthy oral care routine moving forward. Dental implants are only permanent if you take care of them.

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