As you begin your recovery after a dental implant procedure, you may have questions about what to expect and how to care for yourself.
While your doctor will provide you with post-implant instructions after your procedure, here are some general guidelines we recommend our patients follow.
Avoid Strenuous Activity at All Costs
Rest is essential after your procedure. Avoid any form of exercise for 1 to 2 weeks, as it can impair the healing process and increase discomfort.
Managing Pain, Swelling, and Bleeding
It’s normal to experience mild to moderate pain after your procedure.
- Use gauze pads provided from your doctor to control bleeding after the procedure. Change them every 30-45 minutes until the bleeding calms down.
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek and keep the head elevated to reduce swelling and minimize pain.
- Take prescribed medications as instructed. Medications such as Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen work best for pain relief and help reduce any inflammation.
What to Eat After Surgery
Planning meals ahead of time is helpful. Stick to foods that are recommended during the post-operative phase such as.
- Ice cream, milkshakes, protein shakes, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, ground beef, and peas.
A sore throat is common after surgery due to the breathing tube used during the procedure. Eat slowly and carefully.
Continue to eat soft foods until your dentist advises otherwise. Most patients can begin to introduce firmer foods after 1 to 2 weeks of their procedure.
After the 3-month period, patients can eat:
- Soft steak, chicken (not hard and over-cooked), fish, salads (without croutons) burgers, sandwiches, and hot dogs.
Avoid eating:
- Popcorn, chips, crunchy tacos, apples, or any other food that requires excessive chewing, as these foods can crack your implants.
No Smoking
To prepare for your operation, you must stop smoking for at least 2 weeks before your surgery date. Avoid smoking entirely for at least 2 months after your procedure. Smoking will interfere with the healing and can negatively affect bone and gum health.
For more information… check out our blog on Cigarettes’ Damaging Effects on Dentures.
Be Patient with the Process
Your healing process will require time and consistency, but we are here for you. If you have questions at any point, do not hesitate to contact us at (817) 813-1199.
We wish you the best in your recovery.