What Not to Do After Your Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth because of their numerous benefits. However, you aren’t able to enjoy all of them right away. It is important that you are taking steps to optimize your recovery so your implants can fully heal and become as strong as possible. Continue reading to learn what activities you should avoid for the time being so you can lower your risk of a dental implant failure.

Smoking

Dental implants rely on a process known as osseointegration. This is when the jawbone develops and grows around the implants. If you are smoking tobacco products, this can affect the healing process. You should refrain from smoking for at least a week before and several months after your procedure. Of course, this is an excellent time for you to drop the habit for good if you choose to do so.

Rinsing Excessively

Don’t rinse your mouth 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 gently. Don’t spit either. Instead, 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 bleeding in the area that your dental implants were placed. For the first 3-4 days after surgery, avoid strenuous exercise and be sure that you are putting plenty of time aside for rest.

Hard and Hot Foods

After your dental implant placement surgery, it is best to maintain a soft food diet for the immediate few days afterwards. Eating hot or spicy food can affect the healing process. You should chew on the opposite side of the mouth as your dental implant. This will help the area to heal without slowing it down.

Drinking with Straws

When you use a straw to drink, you’re creating suction in your mouth and could potentially dislodge the blood clot that has formed over the implant side as part of the natural healing process. This can lead to a condition called “dry socket’ which is very painful. It is also a good idea to avoid drinking carbonated beverages, as they can irritate the gum tissue around the dental implant site.

You want your dental implant surgery recovery period to go as smoothly as possible, so avoid the things listed above. You will be showing off your beautiful, restored smile in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Vollo earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from SUNY Buffalo before completing his post-doctoral Advanced Education in General Dentistry at the Western New York Veterans Hospital. He spent an extra year at the hospital where he gained advanced training in dental implants. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Rochester, visit his website or call (585) 225-9114.