Dental implants have quickly become the preferred restorative option for patients who are missing one or more teeth, whether this is due to injury, disease, or necessary extraction. For patients who have made the decision to undergo dental implant surgery, understanding the basics of post-operative care is essential before the implant process even begins. At Cowlitz River Dental in Castle Rock, WA, Dr. L. Blaine Kennington and his team are here to help you along every step of the way, offering consistent and compassionate care from the beginning of your treatment until your restored, healthier smile is complete.
Dental Implant Post-Op Essentials
Before your dental implant surgery, Dr. Kennington and his trusted staff will provide you with all of the details regarding your procedure. You’ll be apprised of the healing process as well, preparing you for a successful recovery following the surgery. Some basic fundamentals to keep in mind – particularly regarding pain management, health, and oral hygiene – include the following:
- Ensuring proper healing. In order to recover quickly and efficiently, your body requires adequate rest. Avoid strenuous activity for two to three days following your surgery, especially avoiding anything that necessitates bending over or lifting heavy objects. As always, feel free to contact us and consult Dr. Kennington if you have any questions at all.
- Diet after dental implants. Soft, cool food and plenty of liquids are recommended for the first few days to a week after your procedure. Avoid crunchy, flaky, and hard foods, as these can irritate the healing tissue of the gums.
- Avoiding discomfort. You’ll be given a prescription for medication that helps alleviate pain following surgery, and instructions regarding additional, over-the-counter medicines as well. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also help to reduce any swelling; alternating cold and warm compresses will magnify these effects.
- Preventing infection. Following any surgical procedure of this nature, patients are typically provided with a prescription for antibiotic medication. This precautionary measure helps to drastically reduce the chance that an infection will develop at the surgical site. Be sure to follow Dr. Kennington’s post-op instructions regarding your medicine, as well as any special directions provided by your pharmacist.
Your Trusted Partners in Implant Dentistry in Castle Rock, WA
At Cowlitz River Dental, we believe that each and every person deserves the opportunity to enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile. That’s why we offer a comprehensive menu of restorative dentistry services, including the placement and restoration of dental implants. Contact our office in Castle Rock, WA today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kennington and see what a difference our commitment to your oral health can make in your daily life. Our family-friendly dental practice happily welcomes patients from throughout the neighboring areas, including Kelso, Longview, Lewis County, and more.
You have lost a tooth in a car accident. Your dentist in Castle Rock, Dr. L. Blaine Kennington, recommends replacement with today’s superior prosthetic–the dental implant. You know that as an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Dr. Kennington has impeccable credentials and skills. Still, you have questions about the treatment and aftercare. Don’t worry, we understand. If you are a candidate to receive a dental implant in Castle Rock, you will receive thorough and patient answers to all your concerns from the friendly staff at Cowlitz River Dental.
Tooth loss happens because of extensive decay, oral injury or gum disease. For best oral health, function, and appearance, fill gaps in your smile with the premier tooth replacement choice: dental implants in Castle Rock from