Getting dental implants is an exciting step toward restoring your smile, but it’s normal to have questions about what comes next. That said, knowing how to care for yourself and the hours and days following your procedure can make a big difference in your comfort and healing. Here are three of the most common questions patients have immediately after getting dental implants, so that you can feel confident and well-informed going into your recovery process.
How Can I Manage My Post-Op Symptoms?
It’s normal to experience some swelling, mild discomfort, and minor bleeding in the first few days after implant surgery. To help manage these symptoms, you can apply an ice pack or cold compress to the outside of your cheek in short intervals, take any prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your dentist, and avoid strenuous physical activity. Keeping your head elevated when resting can also help to reduce swelling. Keep in mind that most symptoms improve significantly within a few days, but if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or unusual swelling, don’t wait to contact your dental office promptly!
When & What Should I Eat After Getting Dental Implants?
During the first 24 hours, you should stick to cool, soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, smoothies, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, protein shakes, Jell-O, and other similar items to avoid putting pressure on your implant site(s). You can gradually begin reintroducing other soft foods over the next few days. However, it’s important to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods until your dentist says it’s safe, since they can interfere with the healing process. Staying hydrated is also important, but skip hot drinks and alcohol in the early stages of recovery to minimize irritation and promote proper healing.
How Soon Can I Resume My Normal Activities?
Most patients can return to light activities such as working at a desk or general walking within a day or two of implant surgery. However, you need to avoid strenuous activities like heavy lifting, working out, or anything that significantly raises your heart rate for at least a few days. This can drastically increase bleeding and swelling in your implant sites. Your dentist will give you personalized guidance based on your procedure and healing progress. However, it’s also important to listen to your body; pushing yourself too soon can slow recovery and increase the risk of complications!
About the Practice
Our team here at Midtown Family Dentistry of Dallas has served the dental needs of patients and families all across the DFW metroplex for several years under the leadership of Dr. Minnie Koo, Dr. Le-Anne Ho, and Dr. Jay Patel. We offer a vast range of services, including restorative solutions like dental implants. We’re partnered with the best oral surgeons in Dallas to ensure a smooth process for our patients. If you have any questions about the blog, or you’d like to schedule an appointment at our office to discuss dental implants, please reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (469) 529-6016.