With advancements in dental technology, dental implants are one of the most preferred methods for tooth replacement. Implants are small, titanium posts that are surgically placed and fused with your jawbone. The process of getting dental implants takes place over several weeks and requires multiple appointments. Here, we’ll discuss post-op instructions and provide you with tips to increase your implants’ lifespan.
Managing Your Pain
In most cases, you will be prescribed pain medication. Please follow your dosage and medication times precisely. If you’re experiencing swelling, you may apply a cold pack to the jaw in increments of about 10 minutes each time. For bleeding, gently bite down on gauze and remain in an upright position for about one hour. These symptoms should subside within a few days following your surgery.
Cleaning the Area
Once your procedure is complete, you will be given strict aftercare instructions that will provide you with best practices for cleaning the area. Immediately following surgery, please refrain from brushing around the implant. Continue to brush your remaining teeth as normal, but be very gentle around the surgery site. After a few days’ time, you may begin carefully cleaning the area by rinsing with warm salt water.
Maintaining Your Implants
When cared for properly, dental implants can last up to 15 years or longer. A proper dental implants oral hygiene routine is very similar to that of normal teeth. Brush at least twice per day, floss daily, and rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash. It is critical that you attend your biannual cleanings regularly as this allows our team to accurately monitor your oral health and the state of your implants.
If you’re considering dental implants, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our professional team. We’d love to help you achieve a beautiful, fully-functional smile once more. Contact Dental Solutions of Columbus today!
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