Aftercare for Oral Implants: A Short Guide

Have you recently had oral implants fitted and need an easy-to-follow guide to keep them clean and functional? If so, look no further! 

​The fitting of oral implants is relatively commonplace now in dental surgeries, but as it is a newer dental procedure, it is worth knowing how to best manage the aftercare before you undertake the treatment.

In this short guide, how to care for your newly fitted dental implants Melbourne is discussed, so you can ensure that they last as long as possible.

Cleaning
As odd as it may sound, many dental teams will advise you following the fitting of an oral implant not to clean the implant site with a brush. 

This is for two reasons; firstly, you need to keep inflammation levels down, and brushing an already inflamed gum line can cause havoc and increase swelling. Secondly, you may inadvertently introduce bacteria and food debris to the area, which can increase the chance of infection. 

To be safe, aim to clean the area with saltwater as and when required. This will remove debris, keep the site clean and of course, reduce swelling. 

Pain relief
When you get home after having a tooth implant fitted and the anaesthetic wears off, you are likely to experience some discomfort. This is normal and many patients who have undertaken an oral implant fitting have compared it to the sensation that follows a dental extraction.

But to mitigate it, you will need to stock up on pain relief. Aim for options like paracetamol, as ibuprofen and aspirin can thin the blood and worsen bruising.
The discomfort should subside in a few days but, if it doesn’t, then you will need to see your dentist for an urgent assessment.

Food
When the implant is fitted, it is likely to feel secure in the jaw. But until it has firmly fused, it isn’t, and you will need to keep weight off it for the first few weeks to prevent it from moving or fusing at an odd angle.
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So, aim to consume softer foods for the first few weeks after fitting. This will ensure that no weight is added to your implants too early and will allow them to fuse where they were placed. 

Sleeping​

To minimise bruising and swelling to your face, for at least a week after having an oral implant fitted, you should aim to sleep with your head slightly elevated. 
This can be achieved by propping up your pillows or buying a specialised slanted option. Also, try to refrain from sleeping on the side where the implant has been fitted.

Infection Control
While relatively uncommon, there are always risks of infections when it comes to having surgery. And when it comes to oral surgery, due to the number of bacteria in the mouth, this risk is higher.

Signs of infection to keep an eye out for with oral implants include unusual swelling to the area, discolouration of the gum, discomfort, the presence of pus, and feeling feverish.
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If you notice any of these symptoms, you will need to seek urgent dental treatment.

DISCLAIMER 
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

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