7 Tips for Adjusting to Dental Implants

Isela Cantuarias • November 15, 2022

Are you wondering how to get used to your dental implants? Click here for seven practical tips for adjusting to dental implants that are sure to help you.

In the United States, an astounding three million people have already undergone implant procedures. If you're one of them, then you might be struggling to adjust to them.


You're not alone! Many new wearers of dental implants feel overwhelmed after having the procedure done. This is why we've come up with 7 tips for adjusting to dental implants that are sure to help.


Learn how proper care and maintenance can ensure a smooth transition and make sure your investment lasts a lifetime. Following these seven simple tips will give you peace of mind knowing that you’ll be able to take advantage of all the benefits of your new dental appliances.


Are you wondering how to get used to your dental implants? Click here for seven practical tips for adjusting to dental implants that are sure to help you.


7 Ways to Look After Your Dental Implants

You can ensure that your dental implants provide you with a beautiful, healthy smile and all their advantages for years to come. However, proper dental care is essential.


It begins the moment you leave your dentist's office! But how can you take optimal care of them and your overall oral health,? Let's explore what steps should be taken in order to properly look after your implants.


1. Use a Soft Nylon Brush

After getting dental implants, you may need a different toothbrush. Get one with soft bristles so it won't scratch your implants.


Don't use metal instruments to clean your mouth. Brushing twice a day should be part of your dental health routine before implants. So stick with this and just brush and floss twice a day as usual.


2. Avoid Abrasive Products 

If you're in the market for dental implants, it’s essential that you choose oral hygiene products carefully. This means sticking to sensitive cleaning items as much as possible.


Too abrasive products can cause serious discomfort, so opt for those specifically labeled “sensitive." Additionally, giving intensely flavored toothpaste and mouthwash a pass. Flavors like mint or cinnamon may result in an unpleasant sensation inside your mouth.


3. Floss Daily 

Most people don't floss enough.


Now is the time to make a change. With dental implants, it's even more critical than ever before to properly maintain your oral hygiene by flossing. If you don't then plaque can easily accumulate around them and cause issues if not addressed quickly.


Thankfully, there are plenty of implant-specific floss options available on the market today: no longer do you have an excuse for skipping out on flossing.


4. Avoid Sticky, Chewy, and Hard Foods

After getting dental implants, it is essential to be mindful of the types of foods you consume. Eating hard or sticky food items can damage your implants and opposing teeth alike. They should be avoided at all costs.


Specifically, steer clear from ice, caramel, dried fruit, hard candies, and tacos with a hardshell; as well as potato chips, carrots, apples, and crusty bread such as French Bread. By doing this your implant health will remain in top condition!


5. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

For the best health outcome, it is crucial to cut down and try to eradicate smoking and alcohol consumption in general.


However, if you have recently undergone dental implant surgery, this becomes even more important for your overall well-being.


During the 6-month healing process of your implants, smoking can be especially damaging. Similarly, drinking slows down this recovery period substantially. These should both be avoided as much as possible!


6. Schedule Regular Visits to the Dentist 

Dental implants can dramatically enhance your smile, but they're not a fix-all solution for dental issues.


It's recommended that you consistently visit the dentist at least twice yearly to ensure lasting results with your implant. With appropriate care and regular trips to the dentist, you will be able to relish in having beautiful teeth for life!


7. Immediate Aftercare Tips 

There are numerous types of dental implants. Regardless of which ones you get, they all need to be taken care of. After getting dental implants, you may experience some pain and swelling over the next 24 hours. This is normal and should not alarm you. Here are some things to do after your procedure:


  • Control bleeding by biting on the sponges that you were given at the dentist
  • Try not to move along too much for the first 8 to 12 hours after surgery
  • Sit or sleep with your head elevated
  • Use an icepack for 15-minute intervals to your head or where it's painful
  • On the first day after treatments, only eat soft foods and drink tepid beverages
  • Use over-the-counter medicines which have been recommended by your doctor
  • Avoid rinsing your mouth on the first day


It's also worth noting that drinking too much water can cause problems. Although water can effectively remove bacteria and other food particles from the mouth to promote healthy oral hygiene, consuming excessive amounts of sugar can cause gum damage and heighten the risk of early implant failure due to periodontal disease.



Need to Know More About Dentures?

Overall, dental implants can be a great solution for those looking to replace missing teeth and get back their confidence in smiling. It's important to follow aftercare tips for the best outcome.


If you're considering getting dental implants done, it’s best to consult an experienced dentist like our dentist in Teaneck and West New York, NJ first. They can help you make the right decision for yourself and provide valuable advice about proper care afterward. Call us today, so you can experience all the benefits of having beautiful teeth thanks to dental implants!

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