If you’re like most people, you’ve probably got a to-do list a mile long. But if you’re having dental implant surgery, it’s time to put that list aside. In fact, following a dental procedure of this kind, what you don’t do is often more important than what you do. In that spirit, here is a list of things you absolutely shouldn’t partake in following your dental implant surgery!
Smoking
When you smoke or chew tobacco, this can interfere with the osseointegration process, which is when your jawbone heals around your dental implants. If this process is interrupted, it can cause dental implant failure. Thus, it is important to quit smoking, vaping, or using tobacco products during the dental implant treatment process.
Drinking with a Straw
The suction created when you drink with a straw can easily dislodge the blood clot forming over your dental implant site, leading to pain and a dangerous condition called dry socket. Furthermore, drinking carbonated beverages can irritate the soft tissue around the implant site, so be sure to avoid doing both while you’re healing from dental implant surgery!
Strenuous Exercise
Strenuous exercise can increase the blood flow to your mouth and lead to excess bleeding around your dental implant site. Thus, for two to three days following your dental implant surgery, do not participate in any intense physical activity and allow your body to rest and heal until you’ve been given approval by your dentist to resume.
Excessive Mouth Rinsing
While you may want to soothe your mouth and rinse away the taste of blood following your dental implant surgery, it is important to not rinse your mouth vigorously, as this can irritate your implant site and increase bleeding. When it’s time to brush your teeth, gently swish around some mouthwash, but instead of spitting it out, let it flow or dribble from your mouth over the sink.
Hard or Hot Foods & Beverages
It’s important to temporarily stick to a soft-food diet for the immediate few days after your dental implant surgery. Consuming anything hot or spicy can also negatively impact your healing process. Be sure to avoid chewing on the side of your mouth that has received the implants to give it a little extra time to heal.
Remember, your to-do list is long enough! Following dental implant surgery, what you don’t do is often as important as what you do, so be sure to avoid these five behaviors to help ensure your mouth heals and your new smile is a success!
About Our Practice
At Newton Corner Dental Care, our team of highly skilled and caring dentists is ready to help you showcase your best smile ever. If you’re missing one or more permanent teeth, dental implants are a durable, functional, natural-looking way to restore your gorgeous grin without the need for dentures or dental bridges. To learn more about this dynamic treatment and to see if you qualify, please schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling us at 617-332-6232.
