Replacing missing or damaged teeth with dental implants is a common procedure. After the initial surgery and recovery period, proper care and maintenance of the implants will ensure they remain healthy and free of disease. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to follow to keep your new smile healthy.

Do:

Practice good oral hygiene. 

Just like with natural teeth, dental implants require daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular checkups with the dentist to ensure everything is healthy. Your dentist or oral surgeon will likely recommend a toothbrush and toothpaste to use, as well as a floss designed for implants. 

Allow time for recovery.

Depending on the extent of your implant surgery, it can take up to a week or longer to fully recover. Allow at least three or four days after the surgery before exercising or performing other strenuous activities, and follow your dentist’s instructions for post-surgical care. Rinsing, icing, and monitoring the surgical area are necessary to avoid infection and other complications. 

Eat right. 

Immediately after surgery, you won’t be able to chew, so plan to eat soft foods like soup, oatmeal, bananas, noodles, or smoothies for a few days. As you heal and the pain subsides, you can begin introducing other foods, but avoid especially hard snacks like nuts and apples, and don’t chew with your dental implants until they are completely healed. 

Don’t:

Use abrasive cleaners.

Abrasive toothpastes and hard toothbrushes can scratch or damage the dental implants, increasing the risk of disease. Use products specifically designed for implants or as recommended by your dentist. 

Ignore problems. 

You can expect some swelling, bleeding, and general discomfort for a few days after implant surgery, but you should see overall improvement as the days pass. Practicing oral hygiene as directed by the dentist is important during this period; however, if you have followed all of the instructions and have pain, bleeding, or signs of infection, call your dentist immediately. 

Revert to old habits

Taking care of your dental implants and overall oral health will prevent future problems that can require further intervention. Brush and floss every day and avoid doing activities that can damage your teeth, like chewing on ice, to keep your mouth healthy. 

With more than 20 years of experience, Judy Walker, DDS, in Greensboro, NC, can help improve your smile with state-of-the-art dental care, including dental implants, teeth whitening, veneers, and dentures. In her welcoming, comfortable office, she’ll ensure that you look and feel your best and provide advice and information for giving your teeth the best possible care. To learn more about her general dentistry services for the Guilford County area, visit the practice online, or call (336) 275-1472 to schedule an appointment today.