Dental implants are an excellent means of replacing one or more lost teeth as a result of trauma, decay, infection or another reason. We can perform dental implant restoration so patients can enjoy all those foods they love to eat, speak in public without issue and smile with beaming confidence while out and about.
It all starts with an initial consultation with your dentist to learn about dental implants. This is the tooth replacement solution you have been looking for. Here is a look at 5 factors to keep in mind to maximize the success of your dental implant restoration.
1. The Patient has Some Responsibility
The patient is not without responsibility when it comes to dental implant restoration. The patient must keep the area by the implant as clean as possible at all times. This means brushing and flossing around the implant. If a dentist recommends a mouthwash, the patient will benefit from using it as directed. The patient needs to do everything possible to avoid disturbing the implant.
Keep in mind the top causes of dental implant loss are tobacco use and infection. The bottom line is the patient really does play an important part in the healing process and the ultimate success or failure of the dental implants. When in doubt, reach out to a dentist for assistance.
2. Communicate With Your Dentist Throughout the Process
When the patient schedules the surgery, the patient needs to tell us if he or she takes any medications. Something like blood thinners can have a major impact on the dental implant restoration. If the patient has specific concerns or questions, it is important to ask them sooner rather than later.
This is especially true when it comes to painkillers. If the patient would like to have painkillers prior to the surgery to minimize discomfort, then they need to let the dentist know.
3. Do not be Afraid to ask for Help With Your Dental Implant Restoration
The 24 hours following the dental implant restoration will prove a bit challenging. It might take a day or two to fully recover from the procedure. The patient will benefit from asking a family member or friend for a ride home from the appointment. This is especially important if the dental treatment requires any form of restoration.
4. Be Patient With the Dental Implant Restoration Healing Process
It can take upwards of nine months or longer for the gums and jaw bone to fully heal. patients might experience soreness within the gums for multiple weeks. The patient needs to try to restrict his or her diet to soft food and food that is slightly cool or warm to minimize discomfort following the procedure.
5. Long-Term Care Considerations of Note
Your dental implants’ appearance partially hinges on how well you take care of them. You will need to brush, floss and visit with your dentist to heighten the chances for success. When cleaning your dental implants, you can use the regular toothpaste, floss and toothbrush as you would normally use for your natural teeth.