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Receiving dental implants is a considerable advancement towards a healthy, secure smile, but the care taken afterward is just as crucial. Many patients ask, “What should I avoid after receiving dental implants?” Your implant’s success is typically determined by how you care for it in the days and weeks that follow, so this is an excellent question.
If you’re searching for dental implants near you, it’s equally important to understand how to take care of the implants after placement as it is to decide on the correct provider. Let’s go through the dos and don’ts post-dental implant, so that you can heal successfully, avoid complications, and enjoy your new smile in the future.
What Should You Avoid After Getting Dental Implants?
Healing takes time, and being careful during this time is vital. If you want to keep the area safe and your mouth recovering smoothly, here’s what to avoid after getting dental implants:
Avoid these directly following the procedure:
- Touching or irritating the implant site: Don’t poke it with your tongue, finger, or anything. The implant needs time to settle.
- Spitting or rinsing forcefully: This can loosen the blood clot and cause bleeding or infection.
- Using a straw: The sucking action may slow healing by disturbing the surgical site.
- Smoking or vaping: Tobacco will delay healing and also increase the risk of implant failure.
- Drinking alcohol: Alcohol can impair medications and slow down healing.
- Strenuous activities: Due to increased bleeding and discomfort, it is important to give yourself a few days of rest, heavy lifting, exercise, etc.
What Foods Should You Avoid?
Your mouth will be tender, so you will want to be careful to stick with soft and reasonably soft foods. Other foods will not only slow down the healing process but could also harm the implants. You should stay away from
- Snacks that are hard or crunchy, like chips, nuts, or popcorn.
- Sticky foods, such as chewing gum and caramel.
- Very hot or spicy food could irritate.
- Bread or tough meats that take a long time to chew.
It is better to eat soft items like mashed potatoes, smoothies, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and soups (that are not too hot).
How Can You Maintain Your Dental Implant Day by Day?
After you have survived the first couple of days, the most important thing you need to focus on is maintaining your hygiene. Knowing that the implant is not a natural tooth, the skin surrounding the implant can be infected just like with a natural tooth. Here is what to do:
- Brush gently: Be careful to brush gently around the implant when using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Use rinses as prescribed: Your dentist in West Edmonton may provide a salt rinse or medicated mouthwash and recommend to you the number of times to use it.
- Floss carefully: Ask your dental team how to floss, but still be careful not to disturb the implant.
- Be diligent in follow-up appointments: You can make sure that everything is mending properly by keeping your appointments.
When Can You Return to Normal Activities?
The number of implants you’ve had and how well your body heals will determine this. Some people can return to regular routines in just a few days, while others may need a bit more time.
Watch for:
- Swelling or pain that doesn’t go away
- Bleeding that lasts more than 24 hours.
- Fever or signs of infection
If you notice anything unusual, contact your dental team right away.
Why Is Aftercare So Important?
Taking care of your implant right after surgery helps prevent:
- Infections
- Implant failure
- Gum problems
- Longer recovery time
Proper dental implant aftercare means you’re protecting your investment and making sure your new tooth lasts for many years.
Your New Smile Starts Here—With Capital Dental Choice
Getting dental implants is just the beginning. At Capital Dental Choice, we’re with you every step, from your first visit to full recovery. Need care advice or what to eat? Our helpful staff is available to assist you.
Make an appointment for your consultation right now to start along the path to a healthy smile. Our West Edmonton location is convenient, and we are prepared to welcome you. Let’s work together to safeguard your smile.
