Did you get your new dental implants? Are you just about to get some?
Whether you have them or decided to get a dental appointment for a dental implant procedure, you’re probably aware of its benefits and signs that you need them beforehand.
Dental implants can boost your confidence when you smile. That is why over 3 million people in the U.S invested in their dental implants, and an estimate of 500,000 new dental implants are created every year.
Considering the long-term positive effects of dental implants on your smile and even your oral health, you have to make sure to take proper care of your implants to reap the rewards and full benefits of your dental implants.
Your dental implants will not get cavities, but the gum surrounding them is sensitive and more vulnerable to infection or inflammation.
Your dental implant health and function will depend on how to take care of them after the procedure. That is why your dental implant care starts when you walk out of your dentist’s office.
So, how do you take care of your dental implants after the tooth replacement surgery?
Check out our dental implant care guide and learn the dental care tips you need to know on how to take care of your dental implants.
1. Invest In A Soft Nylon ToothBrush
When you get your dental implants, you may have to switch your toothbrush to a Soft Nylon toothbrush.
Nylon toothbrushes have bristles that are flexible and gentle for your dental implants. Avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes.
These can potentially scratch the surface of your dental implants. Brush and floss twice a day with a Soft Nylon toothbrush.
2. Avoid Abrasive Oral Hygiene Products
Avoid oral hygiene products that are too abrasive for your dental implant. Instead, use sensitive cleaning or even organic products. Using abrasive oral hygiene products with intense mint or cinnamon flavour can cause an uncomfortable feeling in your dental implants and mouth.
3. Floss every day
A statistic shows that only 16% of adults in the U.S floss daily. That is a small portion of the population who’s only flossing!
Be part of the 16%, especially now that you have dental implants.
Usually, plaque accumulates around your dental implants, which is why you have to keep your oral health in shape by flossing daily.
The good news is that there are different types of dental flosses designed for flossing your dental implants.
Keep your flossing on track by setting a reminder on your smartphone, stash some floss in your bag or pocket, floss while watching Netflix or Youtube.
Be creative and find ways to keep your flossing routine consistent.
4. Stay Away From Sticky or Hard Foods
Eating hard or sticky foods can damage your implants. These foods can cause damage to your natural teeth as well.
These are some of the foods you need to avoid after getting dental implants:
- Hard candies
- Caramel
- Hardshell tacos
- Chips
- Carrots
- Apples
- Dried fruit
- Steak
By avoiding these foods, your dental implants will remain healthy.
5. Prevent Smoking and Drinking Alcohol
Avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol are generally great ideas for your overall health.
Discontinuing this habit will specifically help your dental implants to heal properly, as it takes six months for them to heal, so that is why you should avoid these during the healing process as much as possible.
6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Having dental implants can help you improve your smile, but this does not guarantee that you will prevent any dental health issues.
Visiting your dentist at least twice per year is needed so you can check if there are any oral health issues.
It is also an opportunity to ask your dentist about your dental implant status during your healing stage.
7. Follow The Aftercare Tips
After your tooth replacement procedure, you need immediate dental implant aftercare.
After having your dental implants, it is more likely that you will experience pain and swelling over the next 24 hours. Pain and swelling are normal and, therefore, you should remain calm.
Here are some dental care tips after you have your dental implants.
- If you experience bleeding, you can bite on the sponges placed in your mouth from the procedure.
- Avoid moving around excessively and keep your head elevated for the first 8 to 12 hours after surgery.
- When needed, place an ice pack to your face for 15-minutes at intervals.
- Eat soft foods and beverages during the first 24 hours of the said procedure.
- Take the prescribed medications by your dentist.
- Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours of the dental implant procedure.
Final Thought
Whether you just had your dental implant or still planning to have one, knowing the proper oral care after your dental implant surgery is vital.
We have discussed the different dental care tips after your dental implant procedure. If you want to know if the dental implants are the right fit for you, if you have any questions about dental implant care, want to schedule your dental implant procedure appointment, you can contact us today.
