If you’re considering dental implants, you’re well on your way to a beautiful smile and the confidence that comes with it. But remember that implant surgery, even with our FastNewSmile® Same-Day services, is a significant medical procedure. Proper post-operative care is crucial for the success of any treatment.
In that spirit, read on for some of the things you’ll want to avoid during and after your treatment. This way you can make the most of your procedure and keep your new smile confident and healthy. And congratulations on taking the first step!
Smoking and Tobacco
Smoking affects the healing process, which increases the risk of your implants failing. It also can cause infections and delay healing that way. The act of inhaling itself creates negative pressure in the mouth. This pressure can dislodge the healing blood clot forming over the surgical site, which can lead to a painful condition called dry socket.
Avoid all tobacco products after your dental implant procedure and you’ll keep your teeth looking and feeling great. This can be difficult for some users, but it’s worth the effort it takes to quit. Your body and your mouth will thank you.
Is Vaping Okay?
Vaping is also harmful to the healing process. Nicotine can interfere with the blood supply to the implant site, which may lead to complications or even implant failure. It is best to avoid vaping or smoking anything after dental implant surgery. If quitting is a struggle, talk to your dentist or doctor about getting help with smoking cessation.
Hard, Crunchy, and Acidic Foods
Eating hard or crunchy foods will put pressure on the implant and can delay your healing process. Stick to soft foods and try to avoid chewing directly with the implant site until you’ve healed. This includes some raw veggies, too.
Black coffee and tea, pickled vegetables and kombucha, citrus fruits and juices, and all carbonated beverages like soda are best avoided while you’re healing. Try to avoid that negative pressure we discussed above by sipping rather than drawing through a straw, which you may find uncomfortable or even painful as you heal.
Can I Drink Alcohol?
Alcohol dehydrates you, which will interfere with the healing process. Try to avoid alcohol for the first few days after your procedure so your body can focus on healing and accepting the implant.
Is Dairy Safe for Dental Implants?
Dairy products are safe after dental implant surgery, and in fact, milk and other dairy products are rich in calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth. What you want to avoid consuming after your procedure are dairy products that are too hot or too cold. Extreme temperatures will irritate the surgical site and delay your healing.
Avoiding Strenuous Exercise
Exercise can temporarily increase blood pressure, which may cause bleeding at the implant site. Avoid strenuous activity for at least 48 hours after your procedure.
Mouth Care Is Essential
It is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene after the dental implant procedure. Brush and floss your teeth carefully, and use a mouthwash as prescribed by your dentist. Also, avoid touching the implant or the immediate area with your fingers or tongue. This can irritate and delay the healing process.
Don’t Forget Your Follow-Ups
Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the healing process and ensure the implant is functioning correctly. You must stay on target with these appointments.
Let FastNewSmile® Guide You to a Brighter, Healthier Smile
Overall, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for aftercare and avoid anything that could interfere with the healing process. This includes taking care to consume a healthy diet, avoiding extreme temperatures, and avoiding smoking or vaping.
At FastNewSmile® Dental Implant Center, our specialty lies in helping our patients create a beautiful, strong smile they’ll love for a lifetime. Our dental implant process may not be appropriate for everyone, so we encourage you to schedule your free consultation today. We look forward to meeting you!