What Happens After the Surgical Placement of Dental Implants?
What Happens After the Surgical Placement of Dental Implants?
Dr. Trevisani believes it is important to inform his Orlando dental implants patients of what to expect after the surgical placement of dental implants. Having accurate information about aftercare, potential complications, and adjusting to life with implants can help the healing period pass by smoothly.
Keep in mind that healing from dental implants surgery is unique for everyone. What worked best for your well-meaning friend or neighbor may not be what’s right for you. Above all, it is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided to you by Dr. Trevisani. These instructions will be tailored to your particular case, medical history and health.
Immediately after Surgery
After the placement of implants, it is common to experience minor side effects such as bruising or swelling around the mouth, cheeks and sides of the face. The jaw muscles may feel stiff and the lower lip and chin may feel numb. The implant site may bleed and there might be slight discomfort. Side effects typically subside within a few days.
Oral medication is prescribed to alleviate discomfort; other medications can also be prescribed to reduce the risk of post-operative infection. These medications should be taken as instructed.
It’s important not to disturb the implant site as it heals. Dr. Trevisani may provide instructions about applying gauze to the implant site, or gently rinsing it after a few days. Do not touch or rub it. Avoid drinking from a straw, rinsing vigorously or spitting, all of which can increase bleeding.
Eating only soft foods is recommended for approximately two weeks. Soups and broths are an easy and nutritious option, as well as scrambled eggs, applesauce, oatmeal and yogurt. Food can be pureed or chopped up into tiny pieces. Try to avoid chewing directly on the implant site as it heals, and refrain from eating or drinking very hot foods and beverages. Make sure you are properly hydrating during this time, too.
Strenuous activity, including exercise, should be avoided for a few days and re-incorporated into your routine gradually. Pushing your body too soon after implant surgery can increase swelling, which leads to discomfort.
Possible Complications
Complications after dental implant placement are rare and include the following:
• Significant pain and discomfort
• Infection at the implant site
• Persistent numbness in the lower lip and chin
As a knowledgeable and experienced dental implants provider, Dr. Trevisani is equipped to remedy complications if they arise. Following all of his aftercare instructions drastically reduces the chances of a complication occurring.
Adjusting to Life with Implants
As you get used to dental implants, you will notice that they can be cared for very similarly to natural teeth. You should brush and floss around the implants daily and have Dr. Trevisani check them regularly. He might recommend an additional cleaning aid to help keep your implants and any remaining teeth healthy and strong.
Dental implants usually last a very long time, as long as they are properly cared for. There are factors that can limit an implant’s lifespan, though. Poor oral hygiene, smoking or using tobacco products can interfere with the implant’s healing progress. Chewing hard items like ice or shells can break the artificial teeth mounted to the implant posts. Chronic tooth grinding can also cause complications. If you know that you grind your teeth at night, Dr. Trevisani recommends you wear a custom-fitted mouthguard as you sleep to protect your replacement and natural teeth (he can fit you for one).
Contact Our Orlando Dental Implants Team
For more information about the healing and adjustment period after dental implants placement, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Trevisani. Call or email our practice today.
