Your Guide to Post Operative
Dental Implant Care

Post Operative Dental Implant Care

Immediately after getting a dental implant, there are specific practices you’ll want to adopt to ensure the longevity and beauty of your new smile. We make it easy and convenient to care for your implants. Of course, all aftercare requires attention and diligence to make certain your new natural-looking teeth are healthy and strong.

Cleaning Your Dental Implants

Once your home regimen begins, cleaning is one of the most important elements in ensuring that your dental implants last as long as possible. This is especially important in the days immediately following surgery.

Because your implants are artificial teeth, these are the points to keep in mind:

• Food particles and bacteria can easily get stuck in the areas around the implant. This can lead to the formation of plaque, and if neglected, can lead to infection or cavities in surrounding teeth.
• Have on hand useful cleaning instruments that will keep your new teeth as germ-free as possible. These include floss and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Massaging the gums lightly with your clean index finger also helps stimulate the gums to promote healing and healthy gum tissue, which is crucial in maintaining a dental implant.
• Visit our Oelwein or West Union, IA dentists frequently for a professional cleaning. Our expert dentists and dental hygienists understand every aspect of your implant and how it should be treated, especially over the several month process of dental implant placement.

Care & Maintenance of Your Dental Implant

The first 48 hours after dental implant surgery tend to be the most pivotal. Symptoms are more pronounced, and keeping any discomfort away is vital. To ensure a smooth recovery and avoid any complications, make sure to follow these tips:

1. Don’t disturb the surgical areas
2. Brush your teeth the night of surgery with a gentle toothbrush
3. Rinse with warm salt water 2-3 times per day
4. Rest
5. Apply ice to the site if needed

Continue care for your entire mouth after the second and third days following the procedure. Noticeable symptoms may include dry lips, a sore throat, and stiff jaw muscles. These are the normal side effects of using gauze immediately after implant placement surgery.

The First Two Weeks

After dental implant surgery you need to continue to follow the above instructions for proper aftercare. Using these dental tools as recommended and regularly visiting Dr. Adam Kruger will allow your implants to naturally heal. The other point to consider is altering your diet by incorporating less acidic foods, eating softer foods, and having nutrient-rich drinks to maintain your strength and continue the healing process.

One step that also can’t be overemphasized is that you need to schedule post-operative appointments with our office. It’s essential to the health of your dental implant, and it allows the dentist to clean and inspect your teeth to ensure everything is recovering as needed.

Final Thoughts

Before your dental implant procedure, it would be wise to have all the necessary aftercare tools on hand. The last thing you’ll want to do once surgery is complete is run to the store to buy the necessary supplies. Rest is paramount after a dental implant procedure.