How Can I Reduce Post Implant Discomfort
In general, most dentists will provide their patients with a prescription painkiller and a set of detailed instructions to minimize the discomfort. Aside from following these instructions carefully and taking the prescribed painkillers, here are some additional tips to help you cope with the pain and discomfort felt after dental implant surgery:- Apply an ice pack or bag of ice to the area that you feel discomfort. This will reduce swelling. Be careful not to hold it there too long or you can get frostbite.
- Stay away from solid, hard and sticky foods until the pain is completely gone. During the recovery phase you should be putting minimal pressure on the implant site.
- Avoid taking part in any activities that can potentially cause a blow to the implant site such as any physical sports.
- Use a warm water and salt mixture to thoroughly wash your mouth several times a day. This will help the area heal quicker and prevent infections.
- Use a soft bristle tooth brush and take extra care of your oral hygiene during this time.
Possible Complications With Dental Implants
In rare cases, the dental implant surgery may not go as smoothly as expected. In these circumstances you will likely feel additional discomfort, irritation or even infection. Some of the most common complications that can occur include:- A loose implant caused by excessive external forces or low bone density. Most people experiencing this will have to completely redo the procedure, if possible.
- Post surgical bone or gum infection which can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by your dentist.
- Rejection of the implant by your body, which can either be solved by placing a different type of implant or looking for a new solution altogether.
- Nerve or tissue damage due to having the implant site drilled improperly. In most cases the procedure will need to be redone if possible.