The success of your dental implants relies on a few important factors, including the precision of a skilled dentist. Another key component that patients often forget, however, is following all of their aftercare instructions to a tee, like getting plenty of rest and keeping their mouth clean. With that said, it’s equally as important to keep in mind what NOT to do following dental implant surgery. To learn a few examples, read on!
#1. Intense Exercise
If you are committed to living a healthy lifestyle and are used to exercising 3-5 times a week, you may have some trouble listening to the “get plenty of rest” guideline. However, it’s important to remember that intense physical activity increases blood flow, potentially causing the dental implant area to bleed. So, even if you feel fine, don’t push yourself for the 2-3 days following your surgery.
#2. Smoke
Following your dental implant surgery, the implant post will begin to slowly fuse with your jawbone (a natural process called osseointegration). This is essential to the stability of your new tooth, which will allow you to confidently chew into all of your favorite foods pain-free. Unfortunately, tobacco use disrupts healing, which can lead to complications in the short and long-term. Therefore, it’s best to use your dental implant surgery as an opportunity to kick the habit altogether!
#3. Eat Hard Foods
Although dental implants don’t come with any dietary restrictions, you won’t have the green light to eat whatever your heart desires right away. Following your surgery, you should stick to soft foods, like yogurt, soup, and applesauce. It’s also a good idea to avoid hot items that can contribute to sensitivity.
#4. Drink with a Straw
Drinking with a straw can help keep your teeth white, especially if you are a lover of coffee, soda, and other dark-colored beverages. Sadly, the suction it creates increases the risk of the blood clot dislodging, leading to a painful condition known as a dry socket. For this reason, it’s best to avoid drinking carbonated beverages or using a straw – sticking to water is best!
#5. Rigorous Rinsing
It’s true; keeping your mouth clean is essential following your dental implant surgery. Excessive or rigorous rinsing can have the opposite effect though. To prevent bleeding and irritation, it’s best to gently swish with salt water or mouthwash. Instead of forcefully spitting it out, just let it flow out of your mouth and into the sink.
Keeping in mind what NOT to do is just as important as practicing what TO do following your dental implant surgery. Of course, if any questions come up along the way, get in touch with your implant dentist!
About the Practice
With two highly-trained dentists leading our team at Long Family Dental, we are able to help Midlothian residents with everything from routine checkups to dental implants. If you’re struggling with tooth loss and are interested in the latter, then we will review all of the best practices following your surgery during your initial consultation. If you have a question about the recovery process or are ready to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (972) 775-3192.