If you have broken or missing teeth, dental implants will permanently improve your smile’s appearance and function. They feature titanium rods surgically inserted into the gums with screw-on prosthetic tips modeled after your natural teeth. As your gums heal, the implants will gradually integrate with your jaw bone to reinforce its structure. Here are a handful of tips for a successful recovery after a dental implant procedure.

Do:

Apply ice packs.

Following the surgery, you’ll likely experience swelling and inflammation in your gums, cheeks, and jaw. Use wisdom teeth ice packs, which are small and have soft cloth backings, to reduce the swelling. Alternatively, use ice packs that wrap around your jaw and velcro in place, so they stay on while you move or sleep. 

Watch what you eat.

For the first six to eight weeks, avoid eating hard, crunchy, and chewy foods. In addition to hurting your mouth and gums, they may cause dental implants to move out of place. Stay away from particularly hot or cold items as well since you’ll likely experience sensitivity at the implant sites. 

Instead, eat soft and liquid foods, such as soups, yogurt, smoothies, and mashed vegetables.

Don’t:  

Neglect oral hygiene.

Wait at least 48 hours before resuming your brushing and flossing routine. Instead, rinse your mouth with lukewarm saltwater four times per day to remove food residue from teeth and prevent bacteria from infecting the gums. When it’s safe to brush again, use a soft-bristled toothbrush that won’t irritate the gums and a non-abrasive toothpaste that won’t deteriorate the prosthetic surfaces. 

Forget your medication.

Take antibiotics and pain medication as directed by your dentist. Finish the full course of medication, so you don’t experience discomfort or develop a bacterial infection. 

When you’re ready to replace damaged or missing teeth, get in touch with Brian S. Kubo, DDS. With over 20 years of experience, this dentist offers cosmetic dentistry solutions, including implants, porcelain veneers, and teeth whitening, to clients throughout Kamuela, HI. Call (808) 885-8465 to set up a consultation for dental implants, or visit the website to learn more about the clinic’s offerings.