After having undergone surgery for dental implants in Richmond, it’s understandable that you want to do everything right to ensure a speedy recovery. Here at Sheen dental we’ve been successfully carrying out dental implant surgery for many years and as such know what it takes to aid a quick and healthy recovery. Here’s what we tell our patients…
Don’t disturb the implant area
Ty to keep fingers and tongues away from the wound site in order to avoid bleeding, irritation and loose stitches.
Practice oral irrigation
Rinse gently with an antiseptic mouthwash and/or tepid water and salt (usually after meals), and continue this three times a day for the first week.
What about food?
Clearly you aren’t going to be able to eat what you like, particularly in the first few days after surgery, but it’s advisable that you shouldn’t skip meals. Nourishment will give you more strength which will in turn help you to heal faster. In the first few days consider eating soft foods such as soup, scrambled egg, fish, pasta and even ice cream. Non fizzy liquids such as juice, tea, coffee and milk are fine, but you should include at least 8 glasses of water a day.
Pain control
After having had a dental implant in Richmond, you may experience varying degrees of pain from none at all through to bearable. It’s advisable that if you do take pain killers/anti-inflammatories that you take only what you need to feel comfortable.
Cold compresses
A cold compress such as an ice pack applied to the facial area where the surgery took place is going to quickly bring out the swelling (if any at all). It also helps to prevent pain and halt any excessive bleeding. 5 minute applications to be carried out 3-4 times an hour for the first few hours after surgery is best.
Alcohol and smoking
It’s recommended that you don’t partake in any alcohol at least until you’re in full recovery. Drinking before this time can impair the healing processes. Smoking on the other hand can have a bigger detrimental effect on the long term results of implants and as such it is recommended that you try to give up indefinitely.
Cleaning your teeth
Continue to clean your teeth as normal but don’t brush the area where the implants have been placed for the first three days. After 3 days clean gently with a toothbrush dipped in hot water to soften it. You can also dab a strong antiseptic mouthwash such as Corsodyl onto the implant areas 2-3 times a day to help maintain cleanliness.
Dentures
If you wear dentures, then it’s advisable to avoid wearing them with newly placed implants, at least until the stitches have been removed. Not only can they apply unnecessary amounts of pressure on the newly placed implants, but they can also trap bacteria over the implant site itself.
Report problems promptly
Finally be vigilant and report any abnormal or unsavoury problems immediately. This way your dentist can sort the problem out before it develops further.
Whether you’re being fitted for a single dental implant in Richmond or many, by following the steps listed above, you’ll ensure the best practice for a speedy and healthy recovery. If you want to find out just how dental implants can change your life then contact Sheen Dental on 020 8876 5277 or visit our website on www.sheendental.co.uk to book a free consultation where we can discuss your options.