Dental implants are a permanent restorative dental solution and offer a wonderful array of benefits for those dealing with tooth loss, including a beautiful smile and improved eating and speaking abilities. If you are about to undergo dental implant surgery, know that it usually takes several months for the jawbone to heal completely. The immediate side effects last seven to 10 days with the right care.

Use these tips to ensure a quick and easy dental implant recovery:

• Get Plenty of Rest: As with any surgery or other major health procedure, you will need to rest after receiving your dental implants. Refrain from exercise and any other strenuous physical activity for at least a week so your body can focus on healing.

• Keep the Implants Clean: Follow your dentist’s instructions for keeping your dental implants clean. Rinse with warm, salty water as often as recommended every day, including after meals. Brush your teeth as usual, but use extra care around your implants.

• Take Your Medication: Take any pain medications as directed by your dentist to reduce inflammation and discomfort as you recover. If antibiotics are part of your recovery regimen, take them as directed to prevent infection. Stopping an antibiotics course before you’ve finished the pills increases your chance of infection.

• Talk to Your Dentist: Visit your dentist if you experience any dental implant complications, such as excessive swelling, inflammation, or bleeding that lasts beyond the standard side effect recovery period. Make notes of any changes or problems so you can provide your dentist with as much information as possible.

• Enjoy Soft Foods: Avoid hard foods during your recovery to prevent excessive dental implant stress. Eat soft foods such as yogurt and soup, and remember to chew on the opposite side of your implants if possible.

You can recover from dental implants quickly with professional advice. James Julien, D.D.S., is the premier family dentist proudly serving Kenai, AK, residents. Rely on the celebrated dental health expert for all of your teeth and gum needs to keep your smile beautiful and healthy. Call (907) 283-4857 to schedule an appointment or visit the website for service information. Like the dentist on Facebook for more outstanding dental health tips.