3 Ways To Speed Healing After Getting Dental Implants

Posted on: 22 February 2017

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Getting dental implants can greatly improve your oral health. Since these permanent porcelain teeth are placed in your mouth by affixing them to your jawbone, you can enjoy having a full set of healthy teeth again that you can use naturally just like your original grin. The procedure is relatively non-invasive but does require cutting into your gums and drilling into your jaw, which can leave you feeling sore and stiff in your neck, jaw, and mouth for a few days or weeks, depending on how many implants you need. To heal more quickly, follow these tips and all advice given to you by your orthodontist.

Take pain medication as directed

Your orthodontist may prescribe you a pain medication to help you recover more comfortably at home over the next few days. Whether they prescribe a simple over-the-counter regimen or a stronger prescription painkiller, make sure you take them only as directed. Taking too many pills at once can give you a false sense of healing which can lead to you overdoing it with foods, talking, or even sports activities. If you are in major pain that does not seem to fade with medication, talk to your oral surgeon prior to taking any new medications.

Go easy with what you eat

Your new teeth may make you feel like noshing on a steak or enjoying an ice cream sundae, but foods that are tough to chew or that have strong temperatures can actually cause pain or cause your jaw to move too much too close to surgery. Stick to milder foods that are easy to chew, such as soups, oatmeal, and soft breads for a few days until your mouth has healed more.

Avoid strenuous activity

Whether you jog, play sports, or love to dance, you may want to give these activities a break for a few days or until your dentist gives you the go-ahead. These activities can cause pressure on your face from the constant movement, which can make your sutures or gums sore. You also raise your risk of injury from a bump or fall which can not only cause pain, but damage your healing jaw and gums. Walking, swimming, and other light activities are OK as long as your oral surgeon says they are.

If you have any concerns over your dental implants or experience fever along with extreme pain after your procedure, talk to your dental practitioner right away. They will want to address any issues you may be having with your implants, although serious complications are rare.