If you are a senior considering dental implants, you may have to worry about issues other dental patients don't have to think about. For example, you may need more time to recover after receiving your implants. My name is Jodi, and I've been working with seniors for years. I decided to create this blog to help the seniors I can't meet in person. In this space, I'm going to post entries on everything related to dental implants and seniors. From tips on flossing implants after arthritis has claimed some of your dexterity, to guiding you through the implants-vs-dentures debate, this blog is designed for you. Thanks for reading. I hope you find what you need!
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Dental implants are a method of attaching artificial teeth to the bone structure of the jaw. They look authentic and are very durable, but the success of the procedure will depend on some sensible aftercare.
Relieve any pain
After the anaesthetic wears off, you may feel some short-term discomfort and soreness in the mouth. You can use over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to relieve any pain. If you are in any doubt, just ask your dentist what would be best for you to take.
Eat carefully
Stick to cold drinks on the day of surgery - avoid hot drinks or alcohol. For the first week after the surgery, you should only eat soft foods. Try to avoid chewing near the implant site, and avoid food with seeds or anything else that might get stuck between the teeth. You should be able to return to a normal diet after the first week.
Avoid the implant site
Try not to touch the affected area with your tongue or your fingers. This can break up the blood clot and cause more bleeding in the mouth. For the same reason, you should also avoid drinking with straws, smoking or spitting.
Rest
You should refrain from any physical exertion on the day of the surgery, as this can cause throbbing in the mouth and lead to further bleeding. Take the opportunity to rest and recover from the surgery.
Keep up your oral hygiene
You will need to keep up your brushing and flossing routine, although you may need to take more care and spend more time than with your normal teeth. You run the same risk of gum disease as with your natural teeth, so take advice from your dentist on how to keep your mouth clean. It may also help to use a saltwater mouthwash, especially after meals, and your dentist may prescribe an antiseptic mouthwash to help with the healing.
See your dentist regularly
Recovery times from implant surgery can vary, and you will need to see your dentist more often than usual so they can check your progress and deal with any problems that arise. You should, of course, follow any advice they give you during your recovery.
If you follow these sensible guidelines, you should have no problems with your recovery from the surgery and will be well on the way to a smile you can be proud of.
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