Posted on 07/18/2016

The First Days After Dental Implants

The First Days After Dental Implants

As a premier Henrico, VA, cosmetic dentistry practice, we offer the highest quality cosmetic and restorative dental care to patients of all ages, specifically dental implants. It is for this reason that the doctors at Short Pump Dental aim to provide patients with the forewarning and insight into what the first days of dental implants feel like.

If you are planning on replacing a tooth or several teeth with dental implants, it's important to know what to expect during the first few days after receiving your implants. Here is an overview of what to expect along with some helpful suggestions.

Do Not Disturb the Area Around The Dental Implant

Avoid rinsing, spitting or touching the area with your tongue or finger. It may feel odd to have a new implant in your mouth, but with time, your new implant will feel just like a natural tooth so give yourself time to adjust.

Minor Bleeding is Normal

It is perfectly normal to have some minor bleeding after your implant has been placed. If bleeding persists, apply pressure by biting down over the area on a dampened gauze pad for ½ hour while sitting in an upright position. If bleeding persists after applying pressure, contact us for instructions.

Swelling Around the Implant is Normal

You may have some swelling following your treatment which usually subsides in two or three days. To reduce swelling, you can place an ice pack wrapped in a towel over the swollen area on your face for a maximum of 10 minutes at a time with a 20 minute break. It can also be helpful to sleep with your head propped up on two or three pillows.

Pain Should be Minimal

While you may feel some soreness for a few days, serious pain shouldn't be an issue. To alleviate any soreness you may feel, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever according to the directions on the package such as ibuprofen.

Limit Your Activities

You should rest on a couch or bed for the first day. Any strenuous activity like bending or lifting could cause bleeding, swelling and pain. Avoid doing any strenuous exercising for three or four days following the procedure.

Watch What You Eat

During the first few days after your implant procedure, eat nourishing foods that can be taken with comfort such as yogurt, cottage cheese, warm soups, smoothies, etc. Avoid extremely hot foods and do not use a straw when drinking. Avoid eating foods like nuts, seeds, chips, popcorn, etc as they could become lodged in the surgical area. Over a period of a few days, you can gradually progress to solid foods. Do not skip meals as you will need regular nourishment to feel better, have less discomfort and heal faster.

Be Careful When Brushing

It is important to keep your mouth clean. You can brush your teeth starting the night of your surgery but brush very gently around the area. Do not floss the surgical area for two weeks.

Contact Your Henrico Cosmetic Dentist Today

if you have any questions about post-implant care or any concerns, please contact our office at 804-747-0116, as our caring staff is always available to speak with you! Our practice is committed to providing each of our patients with excellence and quality care to enhance both their dental health and well-being.