Dental implants are considered long-term solutions for replacing missing teeth. The tooth implant is placed directly into the jawbone where it acts as an artificial tooth root. Dental implants can support dentures or crowns in the manner that roots support the natural teeth.

While tooth implant cost is considered higher compared to other alternatives, they are deemed one of the best options to replace missing teeth nowadays. A dental implant is  typically made of titanium and is placed directly into the jawbone. Once it’s fitted, the bone that surrounds the implant will fuse with it and hold the implant in place.

It is possible to have just a single implant (or multiple ones) if you need to have more teeth replaced. For patients with few or no remaining teeth, the smile in a day technique might be ideal. The smile in a day technique involves getting four to six implants supported by a bridge. Check with your dentist if it is an option for your case.

How to Look After Your Dental Implants: The Basics

What should you avoid after your dental implant procedure?

It is ideal not to drink anything cold or eat until the local anesthetic has worn off. It is also recommended that you avoid consuming hot foods and beverages the first few days following the surgery. You should also avoid disturbing the area using your tongue or fingers. Refrain from undertaking any strenuous exercises the first 48 hours.

Will there be bruising or swelling around the implant?

Bruising and swelling can occur hours or days after your dental implant procedure. Often, the bruising and swelling will reach a peak two or three days after. This is not a cause for worry though as it will often go away on its own after a few days. Any swelling can also be reduced using ice packs wrapped in a towel.

Hold the towel on your cheek area for at least 10 minutes. Rest for 20 minutes then repeat. Gentle heat can be beneficial after 24 hours. Sleeping while slightly propped up on two or three pillows can also help.

Will there be pain after the procedure?

Most patients experience minimal to little pain, discomfort, and soreness after their dental implant procedure. If you experience soreness or pain, you’d be delighted to know they can easily be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Ensure that you follow the instructions provided by your dentist to manage pain.

What should be done about the stitches around the dental implant?

The stitches are dissolvable but will remain for two to three weeks. If it causes discomfort, it would be best to check with your dentist if you can have it removed. It is also normal to experience minor mouth bleeding after the dental implant procedure. If the bleeding persists, firmly bite down a clean gauze swab for sixty minutes.

Avoid constantly checking or cleaning the gauze. If bleeding still continues, get in touch with your dentist right away so they can check if there’s any problem. If your dentist gave you a course of antibiotics to take after the procedure, make sure you complete the course.

Is getting dental implants my best option?

While undeniably a great treatment option, not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants. For instance, people suffering from chronic conditions and pregnant women are not allowed to get dental implants. Children are also not good candidates for the procedure as their jawbones are still developing. Individuals with immunosuppression are also more prone to infection so they are also not deemed good candidates.