Post Surgical Dental Implant Care
How Follow Up Care Supports Healing
How well you care for your oral health plays a significant role in determining how often you will need to visit our practice. Our primary goal is to identify concerns early so that we can address them quickly and effectively. If you have undergone a root canal, surgical extraction, or have recently received a filling, implant, crown, or bridge, there are important recommendations to follow during the healing period.
List of Services
-
Diet
Sugary and starchy foods can contribute to decay, especially when eaten throughout the day. If you do choose to consume these snacks, brushing and flossing afterward is strongly advised. When possible, avoiding them altogether will help protect your teeth and gums. After implant surgery or other major dental procedures, a soft diet is usually recommended for the first 48 hours. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth and avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or that break into small particles, such as raw vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and popcorn.
It is also normal to experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, pressure, or mild swelling following your procedure. In most cases, these symptoms improve significantly within the first 24 to 48 hours.
-
Pain Relief
After more complex procedures, discomfort can often be managed with over the counter pain relievers. These medications are most effective when taken before pain becomes severe and should always be taken according to the recommended dosage. Persistent toothaches can occur after orthodontic adjustments or may be caused by decay, which is a bacterial infection that can spread into the gum tissue. Sometimes a toothache indicates the need for root canal treatment, which relieves discomfort and may prevent the need for an extraction. In other cases, symptoms may be related to a loose filling or a crack in the tooth. The only way to determine the cause of a toothache is through an evaluation at our practice.
Avoid drinking through straws, spitting forcefully, vigorous swishing of liquids, and smoking, as these activities can interfere with clot formation and hinder the healing process.
-
Proper Care
A soft bristled toothbrush is recommended because it is gentle on both teeth and gums. Toothpaste recommendations vary depending on your oral health needs, so feel free to contact our practice for personalized guidance. Tenderness around the treated tooth or implant site is normal. Keeping the area clean through gentle brushing, careful flossing, and rinsing with warm saltwater (one half teaspoon of table salt in eight ounces of warm water) will help your gums heal more quickly and comfortably.