Getting dental implants is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself
After all, they are strong, dependable and can give you the beautiful smile you have always dreamed about. If you are looking forward to getting your new implants there are a few things you should know.
First, depending on your particular needs, dental implants can often be set into place immediately following an extraction (pulled tooth). This is called an immediate, or post extraction, implant. It allows the doctor to use the existing socket (hole left by the removal of the tooth) to implant the new prosthetic tooth.
Not only does this allow you to see an immediate result, it can improve your chances of implant success. Waiting until a later date may require a bone graft. You begin to lose tissue and bone mass very quickly once a tooth has been removed.
Additionally, immediate implantation takes advantage of the body’s natural healing process, helping to sustain the implant. And, since the socket is already present, it can mean having a less invasive procedure. In some situations, the doctor will opt for a later implantation due to infection or some other reason that might reduce the likelihood of an optimal outcome.
Foods to avoid
Once the implants are securely placed, you will need to be careful to avoid certain foods, such as: nuts, rice, popcorn and other small seeds (which may cause particles to lodge in the surgical area), causing pain or even infection. Immediately after your dental implant surgery, you should eat softer foods such as yogurts, pudding, milk shakes or soups. You will also need to avoid using a straw for the first few days after your procedure. Once the healing is well under way, you should be able to progress relatively quickly towards eating all of the foods you want.
Your dentist will provide you with a complete list of instructions. They will also prescribe any necessary prescriptions and explain any symptoms, such as excessive swelling or bleeding, that you should be on the lookout for. The healing process itself generally takes two to four months to complete.
No matter what the procedure, we are dedicated to your comfort and well being. From start to finish, we will always be there to provide you the outstanding dental care you need. To schedule a personalized consultation with one of our implant specialists, please call: 206‑575‑1086
