What to do after a dental implant surgery?
Although, dental implantation surgeries are common and routine procedures nowadays, we can all agree that one still might experience a little anxiety and stress, when it comes to the day of the surgery. Hence it may also be difficult to remember everything your doctor advised. However, there is no reason to worry, you are literally in the best hands. Our oral surgeon is always thorough and well prepared. To make sure that your recovery post operation goes as smooth as possible, we collected some crucial dos and don'ts. Keeping our advice in mind can significantly aid your healing process:
Dos and Don'ts post dental implantation surgeries:
DRIVING: For your safety, we advise against using public transport or driving without an attendant immediately after your operation.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES: To avoid post-operative bleeding, it's crucial to restrain from any heavy lifting, sports, or physical activity, as well as sauna use, for the first 2-3 days after surgery.
ICING: One of the most effective ways to reduce post-operative swelling is to cool the surgical area with an ice bag as a compress. However, before placing the ice bag directly on your face, it's important to apply a neutral cream to the affected area to protect your skin. For optimal results, icing should be performed for 10-20 minutes several times a day on the day of the operation and in the next 24-48 hours.
EATING-DRINKING: The operation is performed under local anaesthesia. Its effect may last for 2-5 hours; thus, eating and drinking is allowed only after the effect of the anaesthetic has worn off to avoid biting the soft parts of the mouth and choking. Do not eat around the area of the implant. Consumption of too pulpy or too hard food should also be avoided for a while.
CONSUMPTION OF STIMULANTS: Do not rinse, touch, or suck the wound. It is recommended to avoid stimulants (such as alcohol, coffee, and smoking) for at least 5-7 days after the operation. Please avoid the consumption of fresh dairy and egg products.
SUTURES: Sutures must be left in the mouth for at least 5-7 days. If sutures become loose or fall out before the end of the period mentioned above, and the wound edges are separated from each other, please contact your doctor.
ORAL HYGIENE: Proper and thorough oral care is one of the most important factors when it comes to the success of implantation. The area where the surgery took place in your mouth, must be cleaned by hand using a soft toothbrush, while other parts of the oral cavity can be cleaned as usual. Mouth irrigation is expressly FORBIDDEN!
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:Lastly, please inform your doctor about any postoperative bleeding, high temperature, heavy pain, or other symptoms which occur after the operation and affect your health.
The discomfort caused by the surgery can be dealt with quickly and effectively by adhering to our advice. After taking some time to heal and rest, you'll be able to enjoy your new smile with confidence.
