When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are the name of the game – and if you’ve recently committed to this option, amidst your excitement, you might also have questions. The weeks following your procedure are crucial for setting your new smile up for lasting health, so it’s important to be fully aware of exactly how this time period needs to be navigated. Here’s what you need to know about the dental implant healing process and a few of the things you absolutely shouldn’t do until your dentist gives you the okay.
Why Is the Healing Period So Important?
It goes without saying that anytime your body either becomes injured or undergoes surgery, it’ll need some time to heal afterward. This is one of the most remarkable things about the human body – and in the case of dental implants, things are perhaps even more impressive. Since the implants that are inserted into your jawbone are made from biocompatible materials like titanium, they’re capable of fusing with your jawbone tissue and acting as brand-new replacement tooth roots. This is what sets dental implants apart from other restorations – this new foundation can support a custom-made dental restoration for life.
That said, this fusion doesn’t happen overnight – it takes several months to complete, and during this time, the implants need to be protected and the mouth needs to be kept optimally healthy. Gum disease poses a serious threat since it can compromise the supportive tissues surrounding the implant posts. Likewise, anything else that threatens your oral well-being will also threaten your implant posts.
What You Shouldn’t Do Following Dental Implant Surgery
After your procedure, your provider will give you a list of instructions and guidelines to follow to ensure that your recovery goes smoothly. These revolve around maintaining excellent dental health, managing pain, ensuring comfort, and preventing infection. That said, there are a few things and habits you should absolutely refrain from doing, including:
- Smoking – Smoking or chewing tobacco can negatively affect the mouth’s healing process, which is essential for recovery following implant placement. Use your dental implant surgery as a reason to kick the habit for good – or at the very least, halt the habit for the time being.
- Intense Exercise – Rigorous physical activity can increase blood flow within the body and lead to bleeding around the dental site. Try to avoid working out for at least 2 – 3 days after surgery.
- Crunchy, Hot, or Spicy Foods – You should maintain a liquid or soft food diet for the first few days after your surgery. Any food you eat should be chewed on the opposite side of your mouth from your implant(s).
- Using a Straw – Drinking through a straw can create suction, which can potentially dislodge the blood clots that form over your surgical sites and protect them. This can also cause a painful condition called dry socket. The same can be said for rinsing your mouth.
Remember, your dental implants aren’t just an investment in your smile’s appearance, but an investment in your future oral and overall wellness. Doing things correctly during your recovery period is in your best interest – so don’t risk any of these harmful habits!
About the Practice
The team at Buda Dental Professionals has proudly served patients and families in the Buda, TX community for several years, offering a wide range of services including tooth replacement options like full-service dental implants. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the team to set up an appointment for yourself or a family member, please reach out online or by phone for more information or assistance. Telephone: (512) 295-5555.