Dental implant surgery varies from patient to patient, surgery to surgery. Some dental implant surgeries are extensive while others are minimal, with only a single tooth implanted. In addition, patients can also react to surgeries in different ways. In other words, the way that you react to your own dental implant surgery will depend on the circumstances of your particular procedure. Your dentist may give you specific advice for self-care after your procedure. This advice should always be followed. In lieu of specific instructions from your dentist, however, these self-care practices will help speed your recovery. 

Use Ice for Swelling

Swelling and bruising is normal after dental implant surgery. To control your swelling, place ice packs on the side of your face where swelling and pain is the worst. Reusable ice packs tend to work the best because they tend to stay colder for longer than normal ice.

Bite Down on Gauze to Control Bleeding

Don't spit or rinse the blood from your mouth, as this can exacerbate bleeding problems. Instead, bite down on gauze to soak up blood and prevent further bleeding. If your bleeding is heavy, try biting down on a tea bag. Tea bags contain an astringent that constricts blood cells and stops the bleeding. Do not use caffeine free tea or herbal tea. 

Take Prescribed Antibiotics

Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and aid your healing process. Follow all instructions precisely, and do not stop taking your course of antibiotics early--even if it seems like you don't need medicine. Stopping antibiotics early can lead to infection.

Drink Plenty of Fluids, Eat Soft Foods

Drinking fluids and staying hydrated is an important part of staying fit as you heal. Don't drink hot drinks or eat hot food following the surgery. Eat only soft foods on the first day after the surgery, and after that, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the implants are. Resume chewing on the side of your mouth where the surgery took place only after your dentist has given you the go-ahead.

Avoid Using Heavy Machinery

If you are put to sleep for the surgery, you may be groggy, uncoordinated and dazed for the first day after the procedure. You should not drive home from your appointment. Make arrangements for a friend or family member to take you to and from the dentist office.

Dental implant surgery is a common procedure that typically requires little recovery time. Following these instructions, your healing process should go smoothly. Go to this website or a similar one for more information.