Getting used to dental implants
You’ve put in the work, and now it’s time to get used to and enjoy your new smile. Learn the implant expert-approved tips to make healing and your new daily life easier.
Preparing for next steps
With implants, it’s common for your journey to begin with other forms of care. How long it takes for you to get comfortable with your implants depends on your unique treatment plan, so here’s what you need to know to stay prepared:
Healing your smile
Adjusting to implants
Final restoration
Healing your smile
Within 24 hours after you’ve had a pre-treatment surgery or your implant placement surgery, your rest and recovery is top priority. Prepare the following beforehand so you’re comfortable when you need it the most:
Stay nourished
After a procedure, you may not feel like eating. Stay healthy with quick meals such as smoothies, protein shakes, mashed potatoes, eggs, yogurt and juice.
Avoid: spicy food, hot tea or coffee, extremely cold foods and alcoholic beverages.
Stock up on supplies
Some swelling, bruising or run-off from your mouth can be normal at this stage of healing. Prepare towels, face cloths, gauze and ice packs as recommended by your doctor.
Expert insight: After 36 hours, moist heat can help reduce any lingering swelling or bruising.
Make your bed
It’s also normal to experience excess saliva from your mouth as it heals. Prepare a reclining chair or pillows on your bed to remain upright when sleeping, or follow any instructions provided your doctor.
Prep your meds
Prep medications you currently take, over the counter pain meds, antibiotics or any other meds your dentist prescribed, so they’re ready to go. Keep a cup of water near your sleeping set up too.
Adjusting to dental implants
In the weeks following your placement procedure, discomfort should be behind you. When you’re ready, add these tips into your daily routine:
Let’s talk
As your mouth continues to heal, you’ll grow accustomed to speaking again with your new teeth. Practice talking aloud by reading to speed up the process.
Ease into eating
While the settlement of your implants can take up to 4 to 6 months to heal, within the first few weeks you’ll be able to get back to normal foods and gently brush your gums and teeth again.
Get your ZZZs
After the first 3 to 5 days of healing, you’ll be ready to sleep normally again without a recliner or pillows to prop you up.