5 Things to Avoid After Dental Implant Placement Surgery

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth because they have so many benefits. However, you won’t be able to reap all of the benefits immediately after you undergo your procedure. You need to be taking all of the right precautions and steps to fully optimize your recovery so your implants can fully heal and become strong. Read on to learn which things you should be avoiding so you can lower your risk of a dental implant failure.

Using Tobacco Products

Dental implants rely on a process called “osseointegration.
 This is when the jawbone develops and grows around the implants. If you’re smoking tobacco products, this can affect the healing process. You should refrain from smoking or using tobacco products for at least a week before and several months after your procedure. Of course, this is also an excellent time for you to give up the bad habit for good it you choose to.

Rinsing Vigorously

Don’t rinse your mouth too excessively during the initial recovery period after your surgery. This can disturb the surgical site and cause bleeding. When you are cleaning your teeth, swish mouthwash and water around your mouth very gently. Do not spit either, Instead, just allow the liquid to flow out of your mouth over the sink.

Intense Exercise

Intense physical activity can increase the blood flow and lead to pleading in the area that your implants were placed. For the first few days after surgery, take it easy. Avoid strenuous exercise and ensure that you are putting plenty of time aside for rest.

Hard and Hot Foods

After your implant placement surgery, maintain a soft food diet for the first few days afterwards. Stay away from hot and spicing foods as well. Try chewing on the opposite side of the mouth as your dental implants. This way, you won’t accidentally interrupt the healing process.

Drinking with Straws

When you use a straw to drink, you create a suction in your mouth and can potentially dislodge the blood clot that has formed over the implant site. This can lead to a condition known as “dry socket” which is very painful. You should also avoid drinking carbonated beverages, as they can irritate the gum tissue around the implant site.

To help your recovery process go smoothly, definitely avoid the things listed above. You’ll have your smile back in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Steven Kendrick is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over two decades. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Oklahoma University College of Dentistry and has furthered his educational training at the Misch International Implant Institute, where he learned how to place and restore dental implants. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Oklahoma Dental Association, Oklahoma Dental Society, and Academy of General Dentistry. For more information on dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Midwest City, visit his website or call (405) 732-0431.