Going into surgery can be intimidating. Oral surgery is no exception. Whether you decide to receive a local anesthetic or you elect to undergo sedation dentistry, it’s important to find the right practitioners that can take care of you before, during, and after surgery. At Short Pump Dental, our trustworthy dentists and staff offer a diverse group of dental treatments. When treating patients who are about to get dental implants, we make sure to educate patients on all cautions so that they can be better prepared. If you’re about to go into oral surgery, here are 6 steps to follow before your big day.
6 Steps to Follow After Dental Implant Surgery
- Follow Instructions By Your Doctor- Before going into surgery (or before you leave the office), your doctor will give you instructions to follow at home. Because your mouth might be too sensitive. Your dentist may tell you to avoid brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash afterward. They may recommend that you avoid brushing the area of the wound as well.
- Plan Ahead & Rest- Before the surgery, make sure to leave enough time to rest and take days off work. Notify your employer and cancel any planned events you have to give you ample time to rest. Before going in for surgery, have a family member or friend to support you. You will want to avoid driving after the surgery. Also, avoid any strenuous activities that could dislodge the blood clots and lead to bleeding. When it’s time for you to go to sleep, elevate your head using extra pillows.
- Manage Discomfort, Pain, and Swelling- It’s normal to experience minimal bleeding, swelling, and bruising. For the pain, your doctor may prescribe you a sedative and pain reliever. You can also apply ice to your jaw for around 30 minutes. This can help with the swelling. If swelling and/or pain becomes worse (and you notice pus, extreme bleeding, or temperature) it could be an infection. In that case, they may also need you to complete an entire course of antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection.
- Stick to Eating Soft Foods- Stick to eating soft foods, such as yogurt, soup, applesauce, oatmeal, and smoothies. Avoid consuming hot and bubbly liquids and spicy foods for a few days following oral surgery. After a week, you should be able to return to a normal diet. Most of all, avoid biting on hard items in the area of the implant until it is fully healed.
- Carefully Clean Your Mouth- Your doctor may instruct you to avoid brushing and flossing a few days after surgery. To clean the wound, you can gently rinse with mixed warm salt water, especially after eating. After a few days, you may need to carefully clean around the implant and abutment (if attached) with a Q-tip and cleaning solution.
- Make a Follow-Up Appointment- Go in and see your dentist post-surgery by making a follow-up appointment. Your dentist will want to check and see if the wound is healing properly.
Get Dental Treatment at Short Pump Dental
If you’re seeking dental treatment, contact Short Pump Dental! We offer a variety of treatments to everyone of all ages! Whether you need a simple cleaning or are in need of oral surgery, come see our expert doctors and staff. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to our Henrico, VA office. We can’t wait to work with you!