The procedure for dental implants is relatively unobtrusive, but it is still a surgery and you’ll need to take care of the site afterward. Additionally, you should maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine to help your implants last their full 25 years. The guide below offers tips for maintaining your newly-restored smile.

How to Maintain Your Dental Implants

1. Keep Swelling Down

Swelling is normal after the procedure, but you can keep it to a minimum by applying ice to the outside of the cheek in this area, on and off for 15 minutes each, as much as possible for the first 48 hours.

Take an anti-inflammatory pain medication such as Tylenol® or ibuprofen. Keep your head elevated. For example, sleep propped up on pillows or sitting in a recliner chair. Avoid physical activity for a few days.

2. Protect the Surgical Site

With an open wound inside your mouth, avoid disturbing it. You can brush your other teeth, but do not brush the surgical site for three days. After this time, you can start gently cleaning it with the toothbrush.

Starting 24 hours after the procedure and for the first week, use a mixture of hot water and salt as a mouthwash. Gently swish and spit; you don’t want to apply any forceful pressure. Keep food away from the site and rinse your mouth out immediately after eating. Do not smoke for a week.

3. Long-Term Care

Once the site has healed and your dental crown has been placed, care for the implant as you do your natural teeth. Brush twice a day and floss daily. You can eat normally, but avoid overt force that might damage the implant along with your natural teeth. For example, you should wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports and should not chew on hard items such as ice or popcorn kernels. See your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup.

Dr. Andrew Stadler and the team at Stadler Dental Care in Columbus, NE, will guide you through the entire dental implant process at their state-of-the-art office. Dr. Stadler has been practicing for more than 20 years and keeps up with the latest dentistry advancements to provide the best care possible. See their full list of services online. Call (402) 564-4093 to schedule an appointment.