Dental implants are one of the most attractive, adaptable and durable options for replacing teeth. They are a practical choice when one or more teeth are missing. The implant consists of a metal post to anchor it and a crown — or a bridge where several teeth have been lost — and is designed to look natural. The multi-stage implant procedure extends over about a year. When a patient first sees the dentist, the basic procedure is carried out: the titanium post is placed in the jawbone and given enough time to integrate. Depending on the patient’s needs it is then covered with a crown, a denture or a bridge. Patients must therefore follow all the guidelines for the period after placement.
Guidelines and precautions after placement
Keeping a bright smile matters after the implant too. Pay attention to regular oral hygiene if you want to get the maximum benefit from it. As soon as you leave the practice you should begin following the instructions and the aftercare. Some of the guidelines to observe are set out below.
Use a soft brush
The brush you use after an implant may need to be changed. Switching to a nylon brush is an advantage. These brushes have distinctive bristles that are gentle on implants and flexible. They reach every part of the mouth that is hard to get to with ordinary brushes and clean every corner around the implants thoroughly. Hard-bristled brushes must be avoided: because the bristles are so hard, they could damage the surface of the implants. After placement, patients should not wipe their mouth with metal objects. Instead they should keep their routine to brushing twice a day and using floss.
Avoid abrasives
Anyone with implants should only ever use gentle cleaning products. When buying toothpaste, mouthwash or other oral care products they should observe all the guidelines. The more abrasive substances are used, the more painful the mouth becomes. After placement, products with strong flavours such as cinnamon or mint should be avoided, since they can cause discomfort.
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Because of the health hazards, drinking alcohol and smoking at the same time is frequently discouraged. After an implant in particular, you should stay away from these. The healing process for an implant usually takes six months, so smoking during that period can be harmful and dangerous. Alcohol can also affect how well implants integrate. It is therefore best to keep away from these products wherever possible.
Avoid sticky and hard food
Eating sticky or hard food after receiving implants can damage them. It can also harm the teeth directly opposite. Some of the sticky and crunchy foods dentists advise against after placement are:
- Roast potatoes
- Hard sweets
- Apples
- Caramel
- Carrots
- Stale fruit
- Stale bread
- Hard-shell tacos
- Ice
- Steak
Arrange regular visits and appointments
People can benefit from implants by having their smile improved. In the modern world there are various treatment options for all kinds of oral hygiene problems, and your dental health may differ from other people’s. People therefore need to make appointments and see the dentist when necessary. Your dentist should be seen at least twice a year. If you look after the implants well, follow the instructions and see your dentist regularly, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Instructions for the period immediately afterwards
About 24 hours after placement, swelling and pain occur. That is entirely normal and no cause for concern. Below are some recommendations for after an implant.
- You can bite on the swabs in your mouth if you start to bleed
- Take all tablets prescribed by the practitioner on time
- Eat soft meals and drink soft drinks
- Refrain from rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours
- Hold an ice pack to your face for 15 minutes if needed
- Do not move your head much afterwards; keep it in one place
