7 Tips To Aid Recovery Following Dental Implants

Making the decision to have dental implants in Basildon isn’t one which is taken lightly, after all we’re talking about a surgical procedure and a treatment which is expensive when compared to other methods of tooth replacement such as bridges and dentures. Although the success rate of dental implants is high at around 95%, implant failure when it does occur often happens in the first few days and weeks following surgery, which is why it’s extremely important that patients do all they can to aid recovery. Here are our top tips for aiding recovery after dental implant surgery.

Be patient

Dental implants aren’t a quick fix solution to missing teeth and the entire healing process can take up to nine months. The reason for this is that osseointegration needs to take place which is when the bone and soft tissues surrounding the implant post will eventually fuse together to create a strong platform which can support a dental appliance such as a dental crown, bridge, or denture.

Take your medicine

In the first few days following implant surgery it’s vital that you take the medicine prescribed by your dentist in Basildon. This will help to alleviate any pain and discomfort felt once the anaesthetic has worn off. It you’ve been given antibiotics to take then be sure to finish the whole course.

Adjust your diet

Following surgery its important that you stick to soft foods which will slide down easily and won’t get lodged in any gaps or sutures. Foods such as yoghurt, soup, eggs, and mashed potato which require very little chewing are ideal. You can gradually introduce harder foods as your body heals, but check with your dentist or surgeon first.

Cold compresses

Bruising and swelling are common place following implant surgery although this varies greatly from one person to another. Cold compresses can help manage the situation and also help reduce pain and discomfort.

Take things easy

It’s important to take things easy following oral surgery and not to try to do too much, too soon. Refrain from strenuous exercising until you are closer to being totally healed.

No smoking

Smoking or use of tobacco products affects the body’s ability to heal and will make the healing time take far longer than usual. There’s also an increased risk of implant failure. To avoid complications it’s best to give up smoking before the procedure and until healing is fully completed. In fact, wherever possible, we’d suggest you try and quit for good.

Stay in touch

During the healing period you’ll be asked to visit your dentist in Basildon for regular progress checks. It’s important that you keep all of these appointments and if you have any problems in between appointments, then please call the dentist right away to get your questions or concerns addressed. This will help prevent any complications during treatment and is important for a successful outcome.

To learn more about dental implants or to find out if you’re a suitable candidate then why not book an implant consultation with Felmores Dental Care by calling 01268 726789 or book online at www.felmoresdentalcare.co.uk. During the consultation you’ll receive all the information you need to make smart choices about your dental health. We practice general, restorative, preventative and cosmetic dentistry in Basildon and are committed to providing the best possible dental care for all our patients.