Full arch dental implants can be a gift if you have missing teeth, but what can you expect after the procedure?

First, the recovery time can take several months, so you will need to be patient and follow any guidelines provided by your dentist to prevent complications.

Here are three tips that can set you up for success after surgery. 

1. Bed Rest 

Right after surgery, it's important that you let yourself rest your mouth, as there will be inflammation around the surgical site that will need time to decrease. Keep an ice pack handy to aid with expediting this process.

Be sure to stay away from straws so that you don't suction around the dental implants and cause bleeding at the incision. Finally, take painkillers as directed, and contact your dentist if your pain seems excessive or isn't responding to the medication.

2. Dietary Changes

You will want to stick to soft foods that will be gentle on the implants for the first few months. If you've ever been interested in investing in a blender or juicer, now would be a time to start researching them. It may help you to eat more healthy food so that your body will have the nutrients it needs to heal. 

3. Brushing Teeth

Don't brush your teeth too vigorously in the weeks following surgery, and avoid electric toothbrushes unless your dentist has given you the green light. 

Ask your dentist about what they recommend for flossing. Some will suggest using a micro toothbrush instead of traditional floss, while others will be okay with you flossing as long as you don't go beneath the gum line.

If you feel uncomfortable, ask for a demonstration on how to clean around the dental implants so that you don't end up damaging them or causing an infection.

Also, be careful when it's time to rinse your teeth. Swirl the water in your mouth and then let it drop out, don't spit or swish it vigorously to avoid irritating the dental implants. 

Avoid mouthwash for a few weeks, and see if your dentist recommends a prescription mouthwash that will be safe to use with your new dental implants. 

You might find the recovery process after surgery to be lengthy or frustrating, but remember that it will all be worth it in the end. If you would like to learn more about full arch dental implants, visit a local office like Mill Creek Dental.