How to Prevent an Infection After Getting Dental Implants

For many people, dental implants are life-changing, as they drastically improve the appearance of the smile and increase overall comfort and function. That said, the process of installing implants is invasive, requiring several surgeries. As with any surgery, proper care post-implantation is key to preventing infection and ensuring the procedure’s success.

Reducing risk of infection following dental implants surgery

Any area of the body that undergoes surgery becomes exposed for a while and takes time to heal, meaning it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. The good news is that the risk of infection after dental implant surgery is relatively low, and even treating infection can be easy if a patient sees a dentist in Phoenix, AZ, after developing warning signs. Symptoms of infection include the following:

• Red or swollen gums at the site of the implant
• Loose or wobbly implants
• Pus emanating from the area of the implant
• Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Dull ache or throbbing pain
• Fever
• Visible threads
• Bleeding when brushing around the implant

All of these symptoms can typically be avoided with proper care post-implant surgery. Call us to learn more.

How to Prevent an Infection After Getting Dental Implants?

Preventing infection after getting dental implants is crucial for the success of the implant and overall oral health. Here are some important steps to help prevent infection:

1. Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions to follow after getting dental implants. This may include guidelines for oral hygiene, medication use, diet, and activity restrictions. It's essential to follow these instructions carefully to minimize the risk of infection and promote proper healing.

2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Keeping the implant site clean is essential for preventing infection. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and around the implant. Additionally, use an antimicrobial mouthwash as recommended by your dentist to help reduce bacteria in the mouth.

3. Attend Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your dentist or periodontist. These visits allow your dental provider to monitor the health of your implants, perform professional cleanings, and address any concerns or issues promptly before they escalate into more significant problems.

4. Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking and using other tobacco products can impair the body's ability to heal and increase the risk of implant failure and infection. If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing your tobacco use to improve your oral and overall health.

5. Watch for Signs of Infection: Be vigilant for any signs or symptoms of infection around the implant site, such as swelling, redness, pain, warmth, pus discharge, or a foul odor. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately for evaluation and treatment.

6. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support the body's immune system and promote healing. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.

7. Protect the Implant: Avoid activities or habits that could potentially damage the implant, such as chewing on hard objects, grinding or clenching teeth, or using teeth as tools to open packages.

Conclusion

Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime, but only if the initial implantation succeeds. If you want your procedure to be a success, talk to our dentist in 85053 about ways to care for the implants immediately following the surgery and long into the future.

Request an appointment or call Phoenix Family Dentistry at 602-547-9007 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.