The transformative effects of dental implants can be remarkable. Your missing tooth is replaced with a prosthetic duplicate, and only you and your dentist will know that you have an implant at all. But since the implant requires a small and straightforward surgical procedure, it can be helpful to know what to expect immediately after receiving the implant.

Bleeding

Your dentist may have given you sterile gauze to assist your healing. This can also be obtained from most pharmacies if you should need additional supplies. There can be some minor bleeding from the socket that has received the dental implant, and biting down gently on the sterile gauze can absorb this bleeding. Change the gauze as needed in the days following the dental implant surgery. Bite down with sufficient force so that the gauze is held in place, but not hard enough to aggravate the site of the implant.

Swelling

There might be some swelling on the side of your face over the site of the implant. This should subside soon enough, but the swelling can be controlled with a cold compress. If you don't have one, some ice or frozen vegetables can be sealed in a plastic bag, and then wrapped in cloth (a t-shirt or tea towel will do the job). Your dentist could also have suggested pain relief that has anti-inflammatory qualities, such as ibuprofen. Your dentist might have given you a prescription for pain relief too.

Exercising

Avoid exercise or any strenuous activities in the days after receiving the implant. This can increase circulation, and can place strain on the site of the implant when it's trying to heal. Your dentist can advise you on when you can resume your regular exercise schedule, and it might be a staggered approach in the days after your dental implant.

Brushing and Rinsing

Exercise caution when brushing your teeth in the days after your dental implant surgery. Oral hygiene can and still be maintained, but you need to carefully avoid the site of the surgery. Be careful when rinsing your mouth after brushing, as excessive swirling of fluids in your mouth can dislodge the clotting around the implant. Mouthwash can cause discomfort, and should be replaced with a salt water rinse.

Eating and Drinking

It's fairly logical that you might encounter problems with eating and drinking in the days after receiving your dental implant. Avoid hard foods and anything that requires a lot of chewing. Food with temperature extremes (something overly hot or cold) can cause sensitivity. Avoid drinking beverages with a straw as the sucking motion can loosen the clotting around the site of the implant.

If you should be concerned about anything after receiving dental implants, be sure to contact your dentist. But the healing process should be straightforward and reasonably brief, and then you'll be ready to unveil your new smile to the world.

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