Oral surgery, like any, comes with it’s own set of procedures, expectations and realities. One of those realities is that the post-operation side of that gorgeous new smile are a few side effects. Before we share our insight on how to care for your mouth post-operation, it’s important to understand why aftercare is so important.
Dental implants are installed into your jawbone, hardware replacing natural roots, and an enamel tooth fitted over the outstanding base from the gumline. For your body to adjust, and the surgery site remain stable and heal, the patient must remain gentle with his or herself. Here is how we suggest you tend to your dental implant post-operation care.
Expect to be sore. Your gum tissue and jawbone have just endured dental implant surgery; the surgery site will be sore. An over-the-counter medication may be recommended for the first day or so following the procedure. However, you may quickly find a more relaxed pain medication such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol does the trick.
You may be swollen. This is completely normal and to be expected. Due to the nature of a dental implant procedure, the surgery site is likely to swell. In some cases, this means the jaw, gum and cheek(s) are all inflamed for up to a week. You can relieve some of the swelling by applying ice to the affected area(s). We recommend 15-minute intervals between applications; 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off for an effective reduction in swelling.
Bruising. Bruises are a result of disrupted blood cells under the surface of your skin. We all know that bumping into a table can cause bruising; so can dental implant surgery. Likely more noticeable as swelling decreases, your jawbone and cheeks may be bruised following surgery. Discoloration of the bruises will fade over time. Potassium from the consumption of bananas and other foods may aid in the reduction of bruises.
In the week or so following surgery, you should notice a significant reduction in facial swelling and discoloration. Your healing will have progressed to the point where you may return to routine daily activities. If healing begins to stagnate, or worsen during this time, call your dentist immediately.
To schedule an appointment today or learn more about Dream Works Dental and see the beautiful smiles Dr. Sukari McMiller has created, visit us today at www.dreamworksdentalcare.com.
Dr. Sukari McMiller proudly serves patients from Fayetteville and all surrounding areas.