At Puresmile Earley Dental & Implants in Reading we’ll explain how important it is to know how to care for your dental implants after your implant surgery, and in the long term. Below is some useful information about dental implant aftercare and of course never hesitate to contact us if you have any queries not covered here.

• Do not undertake any strenuous exercise for the first few days after surgery i.e. running, sports, heavy lifting etc.
• Avoid hot food and drinks for the first 24 hours and do not eat until the local anaesthetic has worn off.
• Try not to disturb the area with your tongue or fingers.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking for two weeks as these will slow down the healing process.
• Avoid brushing the surgical site for the first few days. Instead use a cotton bud and clean it gently with the mouthwash you have been recommended.
• Successful oral surgery depends on keeping the mouth as clean as possible. Rinse with the recommended mouthwash three or four times a day. This will help the wound to heal.
• If you have a denture that covers the surgical area please wear it as little as possible for the first week to protect the surgical site during its initial healing period.
• If you have been given a course of antibiotics, please take as directed and finish the course. If you appear to be having a reaction to the
  medication, please contact us
• If you have had a sinus lift procedure or had implants in your upper back teeth, please avoid blowing your nose for approximately two weeks after surgery. Please avoid flying, swimming for two weeks after surgery and please try to sneeze through your mouth, not your nose.
• As with any surgery, the possibility of infection exists. If you experience increasing pain and swelling please contact us.

Maintenance of your Dental Implants

The daily care of dental implants is very similar to the care of natural teeth. However it is very important that your personal oral hygiene practices are maintained to the highest standard to prevent diseases around the implants and improve their lifespan.

With proper home care and hygienist visits at our Earley dental practice, you can keep your new teeth throughout life. Implants should be kept clean and plaque free twice a day using a brush and dental floss or an interdental brush. In some cases your dentist may suggest specialist cleaning aids such as interdental brushes, periodontal floss or a water flosser to help you maintain optimum implant health.

Important areas to clean:

• Your implant-supported tooth, above and below the gum line.
• In between your neighbouring teeth

Regular appointments with your hygienist will ensure that you are maintaining the implants, crowns and bridges in the healthiest possible way to ensure long-term success. Your dentist will advise you of the most effective maintenance schedule both before and after implant treatment.