The dental implant process takes much time and requires patience on behalf of the person receiving a new smile. Although the desire to hurry things along can be tempting, the reality is that each step must be completed successfully if these prosthetics are to last as long as possible. This is why dentists urge individuals to follow the necessary guidelines after dental implant surgery to avoid complications that could negatively affect the integration or lifespan of the new teeth. Read on to discover 3 things every patient should avoid once their procedure is finished.
Avoid Smoking or Using Tobacco Products
Part of the recovery process requires what is known as osseointegration. This requires that the implant posts fuse with the jawbone so that a solid base forms and supports the future restoration (i.e., dental crown, bridge, or denture).
If an individual begins to smoke or use tobacco after surgery, this can interrupt the osseointegration process, preventing proper integration. Instead, because this unhealthy habit inhibits the healing process and weakens the immune system, it can cause implants to remain loose and unable to provide the necessary support.
Avoid Using a Straw to Consume Beverages
Once the surgery is finished, blood clots will need to form over each implant site. This ensures that the mouth heals thoroughly over time. However, if these clots are unable to remain in place because of vigorous rinsing or suction caused by sipping through a straw, it can lead to a dry socket.
This condition can cause intense discomfort and increase the possibility of infection. This is why a dentist will encourage a person to stay away from straws as well as spitting and aggressive rinsing, as these can dislodge the blood clot and prevent necessary healing.
Avoid Hard, Sticky, or Spicy Foods
In the days following dental implant surgery, it’s best to avoid hard, sticky, or spicy foods, as these will not only irritate the gums but also cause much pressure to be applied to the implant sites. This can make it harder for the posts to fuse with bone tissues and be fully repaired.
Eating soft foods in the days and weeks following surgery is what a dentist will recommend, as these will help lower the chances of any interruptions associated with recovery.
Placing dental implants is an investment in time and money, so adhering to the rules and instructions provided by a dentist during recovery will ensure that a person’s new teeth will be successful for years to come.
About Grand Dental – Channahon
Grand Dental – Channahon consists of talented professionals who want patients suffering from tooth loss to experience great success with dental implants. Before, during, and after surgery, they will provide clear instructions regarding what to expect and what to avoid, especially after the posts are put into place. Visit our website or call (815) 240-9009 to learn more about post-surgical recovery and how to avoid complications.