Many experts consider dental implants to be the ideal way to replace missing teeth because they offer unique advantages over other options. They’re the only restoration that is surgically inserted into your jaw for stability, which also keeps your jawbone active and healthy. While this procedure is known to be incredibly successful, there are still potential complications that can develop during recovery.
It’s important to care for yourself properly until your mouth is fully mended. Keep reading to learn 3 common questions patients have after their appointment and their solutions so you can avoid post-op problems!
Question #1: Is Bleeding Normal?
It’s natural to have some light oozing for about 48-72 hours following your surgery. Your dentist will have placed gauze over the site to slow the flow. You should bite down on this cushion immediately after leaving the dentist’s office to stop any bleeding. Spitting and rinsing immediately afterward will only exacerbate the situation.
If it doesn’t slow down right away, fold gauze or clean paper towels into fourths and place it over the wound. Some patients have also had success wrapping up a regular tea bag (not herbal tea or decaf) and placing it over the incision, instead. Then, bite down firmly for an hour. Repeat this process for as long as the bleeding continues. If this doesn’t help or if the flow only increases, call your dentist to let them know.
Question #2: When Can I Eat?
An hour after your procedure, you can remove the gauze sponges that were placed over the surgical site. Then, you can eat soft foods for the first 24 to 48 hours. Remember to avoid anything overly hot because this can dislodge the important blood clot that forms over the implant. Also, don’t drink from a straw because the force of the suction can also harm the blood clot.
Some popular options include smoothies, yogurt, pudding, applesauce, mashed potatoes (that aren’t overly hot), and creamy soups or broth. Your dentist will have given you specific instructions on when you can resume eating more normally.
Question #3: Can I Smoke?
Smoking or using tobacco products of any kind after oral surgery can interfere with the normal healing process and is known to cause dental implant failure. Cigarettes, vapes, and chewing tobacco all contain nicotine which reduces blood oxygen levels and flow, meaning that your body can’t deliver the nutrients to your teeth and gums that are necessary to repair them.
Some patients wait until their mouth has healed to resume smoking, only to experience dental implant failure further down the road. It’s best to leave this bad habit in the past.
By following these precautions, as well as any other directions your dentist provided, you’ll recover more quickly. Soon you’ll be able to have your final restoration placed to complete your newly perfected smile!
About the Author
AT Bell Dental, you and the entire family benefit from three experts who offer a full range of services under one roof, including dental implants. They use state-of-the-art technology like digital imaging and impressions to enhance patient comfort and provide the most accurate results. Plus, they have the necessary experience and instruments onsite to perform each step of the implant process, including the surgery, without a need for outside referrals. If you would like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (502) 749-2355.