Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option in San Jose. You can get one implant, or many, and end up with a brand new smile you’re proud to show off. Whether you’ve just scheduled or completed your dental implant surgery, this article will help you care for your dental implants following surgery. Your San Jose dental implant dentist Dr. Nehawandian and the rest of the staff here at TopDown Dental are here to answer any questions you may have. If you have some questions not answered in this article, please give us a call at (408) 354-5600.
Understanding Your New Dental Implant
Your dental implants are made of two parts; the post that lives in your jawbone under your gum (the “root”) and the abutment attached to the post and visible above your gums. Finally, there’s the crown that sits atop your dental implant.
During your dental implant surgery, we placed the post, abutment, and a temporary crown.
Immediate Post-Op Care
We want to ensure that your recovery process goes smoothly and that your dental implants heal properly. Following your surgery, it is crucial to maintain regular oral care to promote healing and prevent any complications.
- Gently rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution several times daily, starting 24 hours after the surgery. This will keep the surgical area clean and aid in the healing process.
- Gently brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Be extra cautious around the surgical site, avoiding any excessive pressure!
- Flossing is essential for great oral health, but avoid the implant area during the initial healing phase.
- Avoid spitting
- Do not use a drinking straw.
- Don’t smoke.
- Keep your fingers and tongue away from the surgical area.
During the healing period, being mindful of the foods you consume is important. Opt for a soft diet that is easy to chew and won’t cause unnecessary stress on your new implants. Steer clear of hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can damage the surgical site or dislodge the implants. Some examples of foods to avoid include:
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Hard or chewy candies
- Hot foods
- Spicy foods
Instead, choose softer options like:
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Cooked vegetables
- Tender meats
These foods will provide the necessary nutrients for healing while minimizing any discomfort.
We use dissolvable sutures for your conveneice. These will fall out as your surgery site heals, usually within 4 – 10 days.
Managing Discomfort
Immediately after your surgery, it is normal to experience some swelling and mild pain around the surgical area. To alleviate this discomfort, we recommend applying an ice pack to the affected area in 15-minute intervals during the first 24 hours. This will help reduce swelling and provide relief.
You may also experience some minor bleeding or discharge. This is completely normal and will subside in a short time. You can gently bite down on some gauze for 30-45 minutes to alleviate this.
To manage pain, take an over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen. Please follow the instructions provided by our team or consult with us before taking any other medication.
If you experience any persistent or severe discomfort or have any concerns during your recovery, please do not hesitate to contact us. Dr. Nehawandian and our San Jose dental team are committed to the success of your dental implants and are here to support you every step of the way and ensure your comfort throughout the healing process.
Follow-Up Appointments
Regular check-ups and follow-up appointments at TopDown Dental are vital for monitoring your progress and ensuring the long-term success of your dental implants!
Once your surgery site has healed, you’ll visit us for a follow-up appointment, where we’ll place your final crown.
Long-Term Dental Implant Care
Caring for dental implants long-term is easy, which is one of the reasons why they’re such a popular tooth replacement option. Care for your dental implants as if they’re natural teeth.
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth once per day.
- Visit Dr. Nehawandian on a regular schedule to maintain your oral health.
We wish you a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing your beautiful smile once your dental implants have fully healed. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our San Jose dental team at (408) 354-5600 with any questions.
