Dental Implant Surgery Recovery
So, you’ve made the decision to use dental implants to replace your missing teeth. You are likely excited about the prospect of having secure, natural looking restorations to improve the function and appearance of your smile. However, you may be concerned about the dental implant recovery process.
In this blog post, Dr. Charles Casey and Dr. Patrick Casey of Smile Montreal discuss the dental implant surgery recovery timeline with our Montreal, QC patients so they know what to expect after treatment. Preparing for the procedure and healing process can alleviate some of the apprehension about dental implant treatment.
Recovery Tips for the Week after Treatment
Dental implant surgery is an outpatient surgery, meaning that you can return home after the procedure and will not require an overnight hospital stay. This is ideal because most patients prefer to recover in the comfort of their own homes.
Gauze Pads to Control Bleeding
For the first hour after treatment, you will be instructed to bite down on gauze pads to decrease bleeding. If needed, you may switch out the gauze pad with a new one. Moisten the fresh gauze with water first for improved comfort.
Stay on a Pain Medication Schedule
After your treatment, you will be advised to take approved pain medication as directed to alleviate discomfort. On the day of surgery, we recommend that you take pain relievers on schedule to stay ahead of any discomfort that may occur. Pain is typically at its worst the day of surgery and for a couple days thereafter, so staying on your pain medication schedule can greatly reduce discomfort.
Do Not Disturb the Surgical Site
It is important to avoid disturbing the surgical site after surgery. Do not rinse vigorously or touch the area.
Do Not Smoke
Smoking delays healing and can increase the risk of dental implant failure. Do not smoke in the days and weeks after surgery. Ideally, you will use this opportunity to quit smoking altogether.
Apply Ice Packs
During the first day or two after surgery, you can minimize swelling by applying a soft ice pack to the cheeks surrounding the surgical area. Apply the ice pack for 20 minutes, and then keep the ice pack off of the surgical site for 20 minutes. Repeat this process as much as possible.
Oral Care
It is important to continue to brush and floss your teeth after dental implant surgery. However, care should be taken around the surgical site. Be extremely gentle and careful when brushing near the surgical site. 24 hours after surgery, you may also swish with saltwater two to three time a day.
Food
To improve your comfort, it is best to eat soft foods in the days after dental implant surgery. Foods such as mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese should be satisfying while also maintaining your comfort.
Rest
Especially the first day of your recovery, it is important to rest and limit activity. Strenuous activity can increase the risk of swelling, bleeding, and pain, so it is best to avoid it until several days after surgery.
By following these post-surgical instructions, your recovery can be uneventful and smooth. For more information, contact Smile Montreal today.
