Affordable dental implants in Granada Hills have made dental implants more accessible than ever before. Still, don’t overlook the importance of caring for your mouth after your surgery. Proper aftercare is an essential factor in ensuring long-term success after your dental implant surgery. Your dentist in Granada Hills will explain guidelines for caring for your mouth after your procedure to reduce discomfort and speed healing of the surgical site.

Bruising and Swelling
After your surgery, you can expect some bruising and swelling. This usually peaks about 2-3 days after the procedure but subsides on its own after a few days. You can reduce swelling by holding an ice pack to your cheek for up to 10 minutes at a time for the first day. After the first 24 hours, use gentle heat. Sleeping propped up on a few pillows can also reduce swelling.

Bleeding
For the first day, you may experience minor bleeding or redness in your saliva. This is normal. If you experience excessive bleeding, it can be controlled by biting on a gauze pad for about 30 minutes. Contact your dentist in Granada Hills CA if the bleeding continues.

Diet
On the day of your surgery, you should eat only soft foods and liquids. Avoid hot liquids and foods for the first few days and avoid swilling liquid over the surgical site. Try to avoid chewing or disturbing the area with your tongue when eating. Drink plenty of fluids after your surgery and return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless your dentist in Granada Hills CA advises otherwise.

Pain
Most people who get affordable dental implants in Granada Hills do not have much pain after their procedure. Any discomfort you experience can be managed with pain medication once your anesthesia wears off. If you experience moderate pain, two Tylenol, an Extra Strength Tylenol, or Ibuprofen can be taken every 3-4 hours. If you experience severe pain, your dentist in Granada Hills can give you prescription pain medication.

Cleaning
You will need to keep your mouth as clean as possible. Begin cleaning your other teeth normally with a toothbrush beginning the day of your surgery but avoid brushing the surgical site for a few days. After three days, begin brushing the surgical site once you can without pain. You can use hot salt mouthwashes during the first week to keep the surgical site clean.

Other Aftercare Guidelines
Do not smoke until your wound heals. Smoking limits healing in your mouth and it can reduce the long-term success of your dental implant.
Your stitches are dissolvable but remain for 2-3 weeks. They can be removed if they are uncomfortable.
If you have a denture that covers the surgical area, wear it as little as possible during the first 7 days to protect the site while it heals. It should not be worn at night.
Make sure you take your prescribed antibiotics to avoid an infection.
Minimize physical activities right after surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.