Getting dental implants is the first step, but implant aftercare is just as important. To avoid unnecessary discomfort, pain, and complications, you must take special care of your new smile.
The text below will explore dental implant aftercare, including the day of your surgery and the weeks that follow.
Begin Aftercare Immediately
As soon as the surgery ends, your dental implant aftercare begins. Start by resting on the way home. Have someone drive you home because the effects of anesthesia will not have worn off.
Most implant recovery symptoms are not a big concern. Just adhere to your dental implant post-surgery instructions right away and continue for the next several days.
Control Bleeding
Pink or red saliva or bleeding at the implant site may continue up to three days after receiving your implants. Bite down on gauze for an hour is the best way to control it. Repeat every six to 10 hours as necessary.
If your bleeding is excessive, bite down on a black tea bag, as the tannic acid will constrict the blood vessels and promote blood clotting.
Also, remain calm if possible. Sit upright and refrain from any activity. Don’t lift heavy objects or bend over. Spitting forcefully, smoking, or sucking on a straw will encourage excess bleeding.
Manage Pain
Don’t take many over-the-counter pain medications. These have blood thinners that can interfere with the osseointegration process. The best OTC to take is Tylenol.
Take it before the anesthesia wears off to get ahead of the pain. Follow instructions concerning the packaging. We’ll give you insight into what products and dosages you might take. Don’t take anything more than every six hours.
After four days, you should feel more like normal. You may experience some stiffness in the throat and have difficulty swallowing. If symptoms persist, give us a call.
Minimize Bruising and Swelling
Bruising and swelling on the gums and appearing on your face will happen on the day of surgery. You may also experience bruising around the eyes and nose. These discolorations peak after two or three days, then disappear on their own.
Ice packs help. Apply them for 15 to 20 minutes, take a break, and repeat this process for 48 hours after your procedure. You can also avoid salt, sleep with your head upright, and drink plenty of water.
Get Plenty of Rest
Sleep helps the healing process. So, it makes sense to get plenty of rest, especially during the first few days. This will allow your body to relax and let a big part of the healing process take place.
Learn More
If you would like more information about dental implant after-surgery care, contact us at Hill Country Oral Surgery.
Call our Austin oral surgery office at 512-327-7233 to request a consultation today to learn more.
