Immediately after getting a dental implant, there are specific dental implant care routine practices you’ll want to adopt. There are also activities you’ll not want to do. All aftercare requires attention and diligence to make certain your new natural-looking teeth are healthy and lifelong.

How Should You Take Care of Dental Implants?

Once your home regimen begins, cleaning is one of the most important elements in ensuring the permanence of your dental implants. This is especially important in the days immediately following surgery.

Because your implants are artificial teeth, these are the points to keep in mind:

• Food particles and bacteria can easily get stuck in the areas around the implant. This can lead to the formation of plaque, and if neglected, can lead to infection.
• Have on hand useful cleaning instruments that will keep your new teeth as germ-free as possible. These include floss, a soft-bristled toothbrush, and gum stimulators. The latter can really encourage healthy gum tissue, which is crucial in maintaining a dental implant.
• Visit us at Reger Family Dental frequently for a professional cleaning. We have the wherewithal to understand every aspect of your implant and how it should be treated, especially over the several-month process of dental implant placement.

Post-Op Care

The first 48 hours after dental implant surgery tend to be the most pivotal. Symptoms are more pronounced, and keeping any discomfort away is vital. To help a smooth recovery and avoid any complications, make sure to follow these tips:

1. Don’t disturb the surgical areas
2. Brush your teeth the night of surgery with a gentle toothbrush
3. Rinse with warm salt water 2-3 times per day
4. Rest
5. Apply ice if needed

Continue care for your entire mouth after the second and third days following the procedure. Noticeable symptoms may include dry lips, a sore throat, and stiff jaw muscles. These are the normal side effects of using gauze immediately after implant placement surgery.

The First Two Weeks

After dental implant surgery, you need to continue to follow the above instructions of care. Using these dental tools and regularly visiting Dr. Reger will allow your implants to naturally heal. The other point to consider is altering your diet by incorporating less acidic foods, eating softer foods, and having nutrient-rich drinks.

One step that also can’t be overemphasized is you need to schedule post-operative appointments at our office in San Antonio, TX. It’s essential to the health of your dental implant, and it allows Dr. Reger to clean and inspect your teeth to ensure everything is recovering as needed.

What Should You Not Do After Dental Implant Placement?

After undergoing dental implant treatment, avoid rinsing your mouth and do your best not to touch or disturb the surgical site with your tongue or fingers. This may cause bleeding by dislodging the blood clot that has formed.

Also, don’t spit, suck on straws, or smoke tobacco. These can impede the healing process and dislodge blood clots.

Final Thoughts

Before your dental implant procedure, it would be wise to have all the necessary aftercare tools on hand. The last thing you’ll want to do once surgery is complete is to run to the store to buy the necessary supplies. You need your rest.