Dental implants are one of the most effective solutions for replacing lost teeth in terms of function and aesthetics. However, the long-term success of implant treatment depends on the care provided after treatment and the patient's habits. Below is a detailed guide to post-implant care from an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
The First 24 Hours: Things to Consider
The first 24 hours after implant placement are a critical phase of the treatment process:
Bleeding: Apply gauze as recommended by your doctor to control bleeding.
Fluid and Nutrition: Avoid hot beverages. Warm water or cold drinks should be preferred.
Spitting and Gargling: Spitting or gargling is not recommended within the first 24 hours as it can cause infection.
Rest: Resting with your head up helps prevent swelling and bleeding.
How Should the Implant Area Be Cared for?
Oral Hygiene: Regular and gentle tooth brushing is very important to protect the area after treatment. It is recommended to use a soft toothbrush around the surgical area.
Gargle: Using an antiseptic gargle recommended by your doctor reduces the risk of infection. However, intensive gargling can make it harder for the implant to heal.
Stitch Care: If stitches are placed with the implant, hygiene is important to keep the stitches clean. The stitches should be removed at the time recommended by the doctor.
Post-Implant Nutrition Recommendations
Soft Foods in the First Days: Soft foods such as soup, puree and yogurt should be preferred.
Avoid Extremely Hot and Cold Foods: They can increase sensitivity in the implant area.
Hard Foods: Hard foods that can put pressure on the implant (for example, walnuts, nuts) should be avoided for a while.
Dealing with Pain and Pain
- Cold Compress: Cold compress applied at intervals during the first 12 hours helps prevent inflammation.
- Painkillers: Painkillers recommended by the doctor should be used regularly.
- Alcohol and Cigarettes: Cigarettes can negatively affect the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Alcohol consumption should also be avoided.
The Importance of Follow-up Exams
- A doctor's check-up should be performed within the first few weeks after implant treatment. is important.
- X-Ray Checks: X-ray checks can be done to make sure that the implant is compatible with the bone.
- Periodic Checks: Regular dental checks should be done every six months for the long-term success of implants.
What Should Be Done to Prevent Complications?
- Infection Risk: If redness, swelling or extreme pain is felt in the implant area, a dentist should be consulted immediately.
- Implant Movement: If you feel the implant moving, you should contact your doctor.
- Excessive Sensitivity: A few sensitivity lasting for a week is normal, but if it lasts longer, it may indicate that the implant is not fully adapted.
Exercise and Daily Life During the Recovery Process
- Exercise: Heavy exercise should be avoided for the first few days, because physical activities can increase blood pressure and cause bleeding.
- Teeth Grinding: For those who have teeth grinding problems at nightn Using mouth guards prevents damage to the implant.
Long-Term Care and Implant Life
- The life of implants depends on their care and oral hygiene.
- Daily brushing and flossing prevents plaque accumulation around the implant.
- Professional Cleaning: Professional oral cleaning should be done at least once a year.
For dental implants to be long-lasting and healthy, proper care and regular dentist check-ups are of great importance. Implant treatment is not only about the surgeon's success, but also about the patient's care after treatment. With a good care routine, implants can be used for years without any problems.
Eskişehir Implant, Implant Care, What to Do After Implant is written for informational purposes.