Dental implants are one of the most important and prominent operations provided by dentistry and dental implant centres should also provide patients with pre-operative and post-operative instructions.
Patients are often keen to learn more of the post-operative instructions which ensure best results and speed up the healing process. Providing instructions falls on the center where the operation is performed. We, at Diva Clinic, deeply care about equipping our patients with preoperative and postoperative instructions along with details of their implants.
While the dental implant procedure is a relatively uncomplicated surgery, following the instructions is a vital component in the overall success of the procedure.
The most prominent guidelines to be followed:
Using bacteria-free mouthwash:
Some mouthwashes may contain bacteria; you can avoid oral infections by using well-known and accredited mouthwashes.
Cleaning teeth thoroughly after the implant:
Clean your teeth using a toothbrush and dental floss. Keep in mind that cleaning should be thorough and gradual. To avoid teeth damage, you must not use the toothbrush heavily following the procedure.
Drinking plenty of water:
Water contributes to speeding up the healing process.
Keep physical exertion to a minimum:
The main objective at this stage is to maintain the quality of the teeth without any long-term problems.
Follow-up:
After you have had dental implants we suggest visiting your dentist regularly to ensure your implants are clean and good.
Habits you have to avoid after dental implants:
Neglecting oral hygiene:
You should maintain the use of mouthwash, dental flossing, tooth brushing and various adjunctive aids for oral hygiene.
Heavy smoking:
Smokers must refrain from smoking or at least limit the intake to a minimum. To maintain clean and white teeth, you are advised to refrain from smoking for at least one month following the surgery.
Drinking coffee and tea:
Avoid caffeinated drinks after dental implants, especially tea and coffee.
Eating solid foods:
It is very important to avoid hard and crunchy foods. Teeth particularly need attention and care following the implant.
Grinding your teeth:
It is forbidden for at least 10 days following the surgery. It is also advisable to refrain from solid food and drinks during the healing process.
Post operative recommendations from day one until the end of the first month:
After the dental implant is completed there will be a clear schedule identifying what will happen following the surgery which is divided into days and stages. Each stage contains clear instructions for a fixed period of time.
A day after the implant:
You can expect some discomfort the day after surgery. Teeth pain, minor bleeding, and discomfort can be expected. They are natural effects after any minor or major surgery. However, you must follow the advice and instructions from the dentist to ensure minimal pain and discomfort including food and drink intake.
Three days after the implant:
Swelling and bruising can appear after the surgery. You should not be alarmed as it is perfectly normal to feel pain after the implant surgery. To minimize the pain, apply an ice bag to the side of the face. Brushing your teeth very gently is also advised. Avoid hot and crunchy foods in order not to cause teeth damage.
A week after the implant:
At this stage, any pain resulting from dental implants should disappear. Swelling and bruising which appeared on the face last week will disappear gradually. This is the beginning of the healing process. You can start doing some light exercises. Furthermore, you must maintain eating soft foods to prevent tooth relapse.
Two weeks after the implant:
Dental implant patients should be healed at this stage. You can notice the healing of your dental wounds. However, if you are still experiencing serious pain and bleeding, you must consult the doctor immediately.
Concerning exercise, it is advised to avoid running and heavy lifting. As for the diet, the dentist will permit new foods at this stage.
A month after the implant:
This is the final stage at which the teeth and mouth should be fully healed and functioning. You will be able to resume a normal life routine approximately one month after the implant surgery.