You can benefit from knowing what to do before and after dental implants, especially if your treatment is coming up soon. Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., P.A. offers Palm Beach Gardens dental implants for back and front teeth that can improve your smile’s health and appearance. Here, he shares tips for preparing for and recovering from dental implants.
Dental implants replace severely damaged, infected, missing, or failing teeth. However, to ensure you have a healthy healing process, you should avoid eating and doing certain things while you recover.
Our helpful guide will advise you on what to do before and after dental implants and what may cause problems for your implants.
Preparing for Dental Implants
You should first receive a dental exam to help your specialist determine the best treatment options. They can also get an idea of potential risk factors, such as if you are a frequent smoker or have gum disease. Exams to assess you as a dental implant candidate include an X-ray, blood test, computer tomography, and a thorough mouth inspection, including the teeth and gums.
In addition, you should fast for six to 12 hours, depending on the advice of your dentist, before the time of treatment, and start antibiotics if needed. Liquids may be safe during this time, but even having a small snack could negatively affect your surgery or call for postponement.
Planning for the After-Treatment Recovery Period
The recovery period is crucial for dental implant success and oral health. Your dental specialist will advise you on what to do before and after dental implants, but most patients follow the same rules for recovery. After your dental implant treatment, you should do the following:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity, sports, or exercise for one-week minimum following surgery.
- Rest well for the two days following the surgery, and keep your head elevated on two or three pillows.
- Take medications as your doctor advises and follow their timeline.
- Use ice to reduce some of the swellings and place gauze over the affected area.
- Plan ahead for obligations like work, school, or childcare, as you may need assistance completing tasks.
- Eat healthily and avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water.
Eating Foods After Surgery: What Is Safe?
The wrong foods can damage a fragile new tooth, whether a back or front tooth. So, what is safe to consume after surgery? Foods that are okay to eat are:
- Applesauce
- Cream of wheat or oatmeal
- Eggs
- Fruit juices (apple, cranberry, etc.)
- Fruit smoothies
- Jell-O or pudding
- Mashed potatoes
- Milkshakes
- Rice or rolenta
- Soft fruits (bananas, berries, canned Pears, or peaches)
- Soups (minestrone, lentils, etc.)
- Steamed vegetables
Avoid spicy or citrus foods and hard foods (which you should wait a month to eat) like chips, bread, pretzels, popcorn, and nuts. Additionally, do not consume alcohol until your dentist deems it safe.
What Not to Do After Dental Implant Surgery
The most vital part of dental implant surgery is the recovery period because it can mean the difference between a successful procedure and one with more problems. It may be tempting to poke around at the surgery area, but fight the urge and let the affected spot heal naturally.
Under no circumstances should you drink alcoholic beverages for at least two weeks after the surgery. We also advise patients not to smoke throughout the process, especially in the weeks following dental implants. Smoking can cause implant failure and more severe oral complications that counteract the healing process your mouth needs to go through.
Contact Dr. Mark L. Civin for Effective Dental Implants
The professionals at the office of Dr. Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., P.A., are experienced in implant dentistry, whether you require a single dental implant or multiple. Our trustworthy team can advise you on the best tips for before and after dental implants. We guide you every step of the way and set you up for success during your visits.
Learn what dental implants are made of and more information by calling (561) 624-2224 to schedule a dental implant consultation.
