Things You Should Do to Promote Healing After Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implant surgery involves the installation of synthetic tooth roots that anchor the replacement tooth. Usually, the dental implants are installed surgically into the jawbone, and the procedure is extremely safe. However, there are certain things you need to do after surgery to ensure you heal quickly and avoid further complications. This piece will share some of these guidelines, so be sure to follow them along with those your dental expert will provide.

Bleeding

Some bleeding is expected after the installation of dental implants. Therefore, don't get worried when you notice some redness, oozing, or bleeding in the saliva. Biting gauze continuously for about half an hour or so can help. Don't be tempted to remove the gauze to verify if you are still bleeding — this can easily dislodge the clot and increase the bleeding. Repeat the process if necessary. The bleeding will stop in several hours, but if it doesn't, you may want to bite a moist black tea bag for half an hour. The contents in the tea bag contain tannic acid that creates a clot. Be sure to sit upright and keep your tongue away from the surgical area.

Swelling

Another regular occurrence you may expect after surgery is swelling. Luckily, there are several things you can do to minimise swelling. For instance, you can place an ice bag in the area or a towel containing ice for half an hour to control the inflammation. You also need to elevate your head with extra pillows the first few nights after surgery to minimise swelling.

Pain

After surgery, the dental expert will prescribe some pain medication. Be sure to follow the guidelines and drink more water to promote the absorption of the drug and minimise stomach irritation. Some antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. Be sure to report any unexpected side effects to your dental care expert so they can find the best way to ease your pain. The good news is that the pain will lessen as the days go by.

Hygiene

One thing patients overlook after dental implant surgery is dental cleaning. The truth is that good oral hygiene promotes healing. For this reason, it is essential to follow the direction your dental expert offered regardless of how you're feeling. For instance, you may be asked to use an oral rinse (the expert will recommend the brand) to clean your teeth on the first night after surgery. After that, you'll need to use the same product twice — preferably after breakfast and dinner. Warm, salty water rinses may also be required. Don't forget to brush your teeth gently and avoid using commercial mouth sprays or washes.

To learn more, contact a dentist about dental implants.


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