Getting dental implants is a huge investment with countless benefits and rewards. However, before you are able to see all the advantages of your new restoration, it’s important that you take time to allow them to heal. If you have countless questions regarding what life will be like directly after your dental implant surgery, your dentist has the answer. Continue reading to have some of the most common dental implant surgery post-op questions answered.
Can I Eat Right After Surgery?
You will have to wait about an hour after surgery before you can remove the gauze sponges that have been placed in your mouth. However, you will have to be very careful regarding the food that you eat. Only consume foods that are soft and liquid for the first day after your surgery is complete. You should avoid especially hot foods and drinks as well. Also remember not to drink from a straw for the next 24 hours. By taking all of these precautions, your mouth will be able to heal properly.
Will Recovery Be Painful?
The amount of discomfort you feel will depend on how extensive your surgery was. You will be able to use over the counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen in order to relieve pain. Your dentist may also prescribe you stronger pain medication if they deem it necessary. Remember to take all pain relievers as directed. Pain should subside over time. If you notice it getting worse after 5 to 7 days, you should call your dentist to let them know what is going on.
How Do I Keep My Teeth Clean?
Cleaning your teeth with regular brushing is just as important now as any other time. You can start brushing your teeth again after 24 hours following your surgery. Avoid the area of the surgical site. You may also rinse your mouth with mild salt water (1/4 teaspoon in a glass of water) every so often. Don’t use mouthwash or a rinse that contains hydrogen peroxide for at least two weeks after your surgery.
Will My Face Become Swollen?
Swelling can occur as part of the healing process and usually increases for about 3 to 4 days after oral surgery. You could also experience some bruising near the surgical site. Most of the time, swelling can be reduced with the use of an ice pack or ibuprofen. If you’ve surgery on both sides, switch the icepack approximately every 30 minutes.
Will the Surgical Site Bleed?
It is common for there to be some bleeding of the surgical site after the dental implant placement surgery. This is why your dentist has placed gauze over the area. You should continue to bite down firmly on them for the first hour to stop any bleeding. Don’t spit or rinse because this can stimulate more bleeding. If the oozing is heavy, take a moistened regular tea bag wrapped in gauze and place it over the bleeding site. Bite down firmly for an hour.
Getting new dental implants is exciting, but it takes time for them to heal. With proper post-operative care, you will be reaping the benefits of your new teeth in no time!
About the Author
Dr. William C. Poe is a well experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than three decades. He earned his dental doctorate from the USC Dental School and is committed to continuing his education in order to expand his knowledge and skills in the field. Dr. Poe offers dental implants as a tooth replacement option. For more information or to schedule a consultation at his office in Los Alamitos, visit his website or call (562) 594-5067.