For many people, dental implants are life-changing, as they drastically improve the appearance of the smile and increase overall comfort and function. That said, the process of installing implants is invasive, requiring several surgeries. As with any surgery, proper care post-implantation is key to preventing infection and ensuring the procedure’s success.
Any area of the body that undergoes surgery becomes exposed for a while and takes time to heal, meaning it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. The good news is that the risk of infection after dental implant surgery is relatively low, and even treating infection can be easy if a patient sees a dentist after developing warning signs. Symptoms of infection include the following:
All of these symptoms can typically be avoided with proper care post-implant surgery.
A robust oral hygiene routine is a recommended way to prevent an infection from occurring after dental implant surgery. An implant patient’s oral hygiene routine should consist of gently brushing twice a day as normal. Regular brushing helps to prevent the buildup of infection-causing bacteria.
In addition to brushing, patients should also floss regularly. Flossing helps to remove the food particles that a toothbrush cannot reach and ensures that the gums and teeth have a healthy environment in which they can thrive.
An essential aspect of the dental implant healing process is rinsing. Patients are advised to rinse the mouth once or twice a day with a dentist-approved mouthwash or a saltwater solution. When the wound is healing, it is much more prone to infection from stubborn bacteria. Rinsing helps to control bacteria buildup and, subsequently, reduce the risk of infection.
Smoking not only invites a ton of bacteria into the mouth but also jeopardizes the body’s ability to heal properly. As a result, it is one of the worst things a patient can do post-implant surgery. Dentists advise patients to avoid smoking both prior to and following surgery.
Sugar is bad for the gums at any time, but it is especially damaging to gums that are in the healing process. At least while the implants heal, patients should avoid foods and beverages that contain a lot of sugar, as it can cause excess bacteria buildup. Sugar particles are also extremely small and can hide in the deepest crevices of the mouth, including within the site of the surgery.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Weatherford, TX.
Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime, but only if the initial implantation succeeds. If you want your procedure to be a success, talk to a dentist about ways to care for the implants immediately following the surgery and long into the future.
Request an appointment or call Millar Family Dentistry at 817-885-5214 for an appointment in our Weatherford office.
Selecting an effective way to replace missing teeth can be a significant decision, and dental implants often offer a dependable solution that restores both function and appearance. These specialized fixtures fuse with the jawbone to form a solid foundation for replacement teeth. However, it is important to note that not everyone automatically qualifies for this…
Dental implants can permanently replace teeth and maintain a natural appearance. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants integrate with the jawbone, offering stability, functionality, and longevity. However, proper care is needed to ensure their success and prevent complications. Following the best practices for implant care can help maintain oral health and extend the restoration's lifespan.Dental…
Dental implants are one of the most reliable and lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants integrate with the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for artificial teeth. While many patients benefit from implants, not everyone is an immediate candidate. Certain factors must be evaluated to determine eligibility, and for…