Mistakes to Avoid After Dental Implant Surgery

The process of replacing your missing teeth with dental implants in Greenacres includes your recovery after the procedure. During this period, your implants and jawbone fuse together. If you’re looking to ensure long-term implant success, you’ll want to avoid doing several things that may compromise your new smile.

What You Shouldn’t Do During Your Recovery Period

Doing Strenuous Physical Activities

Dentists typically advise their patients to take it easy during the first week of dental implant surgery.  Rushing to exercise puts undue stress on your body and causes bleeding, swelling, and pain at the treatment site. For this reason, it’s best to wait until you’re cleared for jogging, playing sports, lifting heavy objects, or other physically strenuous activities.

Using Tobacco Products

Smoking or chewing tobacco during the first few days after surgery increases the likelihood of dental implant failure. Since tobacco products contain nicotine and other chemicals that weaken the immune system and reduce blood flow toward the treatment site, using them will negatively impact your body’s ability to heal.

Eating a Low-Nutrition Diet

Consuming a junk food diet rich in saturated fat impairs your immune system function by slowing it down. Since a weakened immune system increases your chances of contracting an infection and reduces your body’s ability to recover from your surgery, it’s best to ensure adequate nutrition.

Instead of reaching for a bag of chips, eat whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seafood.

Failing to Take Prescribed Medication

Your dentist will likely advise you to take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen for the first few days after your surgery. Besides easing post-operative discomfort, these medications have anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent swelling.

Considering Dental Implants in Greenacres?

Dr. Miguel Ferrer, DDS, offers convenient full-service dentistry that allows for a “one-stop-shop” experience for you and your family. If you’re looking to enhance your natural smile or create a brand new one, contact us today to make an appointment.