Here Are Some Aftercare Tips for Dental Implants in Arlington

Dental implants in Arlington are the first step on the road with better life. Before long you’ll dazzle the world with your restored smile. You’ll also enjoy the benefits of a healthy, well-rounded diet. First though, you need to know how to care for yourself during the first couple of days after implant surgery. You should also know how to maintain the benefits of implants for many years to come.

What to Do during the First 48 Hours

Receiving dental implants is similar to other forms of surgery. Your body needs time to recover and to adjust to the changes it’s undergoing. Here are some ways to help it along:

• Plan to take it easy for the first couple of days after the procedure. You may want to avoid taking on new projects or making major decisions during this time. Think of it as a period of rest and refreshment.
• Stock up on soft foods. This includes items like oatmeal, bananas, soup, etc. These items are both nutritious and gentle on your teeth.
• Keep over-the-counter pain relievers on hand. You may want to ask your pharmacist about liquid forms of  acetaminophen and ibuprofen, both of which have anti-pain and anti-inflammatory properties.

Caring for Your Dental Implants over the Long Term

Keeping your dental implants in good shape for years to come is easier than you might think. Use these tips as a guide:

• Keep up regular brushing and flossing. This is important for both your implants and your remaining natural teeth. You should use an unwaxed form of floss and a soft bristle toothbrush with nonabrasive toothpaste.
• Consider using a water stream flossing device. These can be used alongside or instead of traditional floss. Choose a model with a metal-free tip to avoid scratching your implants.
• Eat a variety of fresh, nutritious foods. These should include healthy protein sources like chicken or turkey breast, fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and whole grain breads.
• Limit sugar consumption. This is important to prevent formation of plaque on your gums, implants, and remaining natural teeth. While implants themselves cannot get cavities, decay-causing bacteria will remain active in your mouth throughout the rest of your life. Minimizing your intake of sugary foods will help to control this problem.
• Follow your dentist’s recommendations for implant care. This is important whether you have permanent implants or a removable implant-supported restoration. All forms of implants contain metal components that need occasional checking.
• See your implant dentist in Arlington as directed. This benefits not only your implants but your overall health. Regular dental exams can catch serious health problems such as oral cancer in their earliest stages, when treatment is most effective.

Dental implants are the first step on the road to a better life. Use the tips in this post to get the most out of the investment. That’s the best way to keep yourself smiling and active over the long term.

About the Author

Texas native Dr. Stephen Wardlaw is a skilled implant dentist with more than 10 years of experience under his belt. He’s a member of the American Dental Association and the Dallas County Dental Society. You can reach his office online or by calling (817) 572-5115.