How To Heal Faster After Dental Implants

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The healing period for dental implants refers to the time the implant and jawbone fuse together (also known as osseointegration). This typically takes 3-4 months, but will differ from patient to patient. To ensure a quick, smooth recovery, you must follow the aftercare instructions set out by your dentist. Your chances of infection and implant failure are then diminished.

Keep your mouth clean

Your dental implant oral health regime isn’t too different from what you should be doing every day:

1. Brush twice a day. Be sure to use a high quality fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Clean the dental implant area thoroughly to remove debris around the tooth, paying particular attention to the gum line. Don’t forget to brush along the edge of the implant to remove bacteria and build-up.
3. Floss between the teeth (consider a water flosser).

Does salt water help heal dental implants? Incorporating a salt water rinse into your every day routine not only keeps your mouth clean and healthy while it recovers, but also has the ability to reduce swelling and soothe discomfort. 24 hours after your procedure, begin to rinse your mouth 3-4 times per day with salt water. This action should be continued for at least two weeks. We generally recommend using half a teaspoon of salt and a cup of warm water (be careful to ensure the liquid isn’t too hot to avoid scalding yourself). During meals, remember to drink plenty of water and swill any debris from your teeth to stop food particles from becoming dislodged.

Do not smoke or drink alcohol

Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure, alongside other health issues. When you smoke, it causes a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, hindering your body’s ability to heal as a result. The habit additionally creates a build-up of bacterial plaque, which leads to painful conditions such as gum disease. Therefore, we recommend avoiding smoking altogether. Refrain from drinking alcohol for at least two weeks after your dental implant treatment. Similar to smoking, alcohol weakens the immune system and slows down the healing process. Alcohol also has the ability to contribute to bone loss, which is a big factor of dental implant failure and peri-implantitis.

How to speed up implant recovery: General tips

Here are some other ways in which you can support a quick recovery:

• Stick to a nutritious soft food diet for at least two weeks post-surgery
• Stay hydrated
• Consider wearing a mouth guard if you clench or grind your teeth (bruxism)
• Attend follow-up appointments
• Do not use straws to avoid disrupting the blood clot
• Take it easy as much as possible

Conclusion: Every patient heals at a different speed. If you have any concerns about your recovery, do not hesitate to get in touch. We will be able to identify any potential issues you may have and next steps.