TLC Dental’s Complete Guide to Dental Implant Aftercare and Maintenance

The Dos and Don’ts Of Dental Implant Recovery

If you’re considering or have recently undergone dental implant surgery, it’s crucial to prioritise post-operative care and maintenance for the long-term success of your implants. Here’s a comprehensive guide to essential aftercare dos and don’ts, the significance of maintaining stellar oral hygiene, and tips for ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of your dental implants.

The Importance of Looking After Your Oral Hygiene

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is paramount for the success of dental implants. Proper oral care helps prevent infections and ensures the longevity of the implants. Regular brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using interdental brushes or floss, and rinsing with antimicrobial mouthwash are essential for keeping your implants clean and plaque-free.

The Dos and Don’ts After Dental Implant Surgery

After dental implant surgery, it’s important to follow specific dos and don’ts to support the healing process and long-term success of your new implants:

Dos:

• Eat only soft foods for at least a week after the treatment
• Keep your mouth as clean as possible
• Rinse your mouth with the recommended mouthwash at least three to four times a day
• Attend regular check-ups to monitor the health of your implants

Don’ts:

• Avoid hot food and drinks for the first 24 hours
• Refrain from using straws or sucking on anything
• Steer clear of strenuous activities for a few days after the surgery
• Do not touch the implant with your fingers or tongue
• Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol for at least two weeks after the surgery

Regular check-ups are vital for keeping your new teeth looking healthy. These appointments allow your dentist to monitor the health of your implants and address any issues at an early stage.

Tips for Maintaining Oral Hygiene

To maintain optimal oral hygiene and ensure the longevity of your dental implants, you’ll need to follow these guidelines.

We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush or electric toothbrush to clean your teeth twice a day for two minutes. Your toothbrush can harbour bacteria that can impact your dental implants, so we recommend changing it regularly. 

Use your preferred flossing method (we like interdental brushes or floss) daily to clean around your implants. Avoid smoking and eating hard, crunchy foods as these habits can hinder your healing process and put pressure on your implants, potentially damaging your new teeth.

Neglecting your oral hygiene after dental implant surgery can lead to infections, implant failure, and other complications that may jeopardise the success of the implants. 

Expert Dental Care, When You Need It

Taking care of your dental implants is essential for their long-term success. By maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular check-ups, and following the recommended care routine, you can ensure the health and longevity of your implants. If you’re interested in the dental implant process, the team at TLC Dental is here to help you understand the ins and outs of dental implants. Give our friendly team a call and we’ll answer your questions about whether dental implants are the right choice for you.