Rest and Relax
On the day of the surgery, rest completely to prevent triggering bleeding or pain. Take it easy for the next three days after dental implant surgery. In particular, avoid bending over, which could cause bleeding or throbbing in the surgical site.
By following these guidelines, you can improve your chances for an uneventful and healthy recovery from dental implant surgery. If you have any concerns during the recovery period, consult your dentist for advice.
The immediate side effects of implant surgery usually disappear within seven to 10 days, although it can take several months for the bone to heal completely. During the week or two following surgery, follow these tips to increase your chance of a healthy recovery.
Take Your Pain Medications and Antibiotics
If your dentist prescribes you pain medication and antibiotics, take these medications according to the prescribed instructions. Pain medications are better at preventing pain than taking it away once it is already present, so start taking them as soon as the surgical anesthetic starts to wear off. It’s also important to take the full course of antibiotics to prevent infection.
Keep Your Dental Implants Clean
Your dentist is likely to probably instruct you to rinse with warm salt water several times a day, preferably after meals, following dental implant surgery. This helps to keep the opening in your gum clean. Brush your teeth as usual, but be very careful when you are brushing close to the sore surgical site.
Eat Soft Foods
After dental implant surgery, it’s best to stick to soft foods, as chewing is likely to be uncomfortable. If you do eat something that requires chewing, try to chew it on the opposite side of your mouth to the site of the dental implant.
Don’t Wear Dentures
If you usually wear dentures, then it’s best to avoid using them immediately after dental implant surgery. This applies to partial and full dentures, as well as dental flippers.