Implant Retained Dentures Aftercare

Many people choose implant retained dentures due to their longevity and ability to replicate natural teeth.

While you will need to undergo dental implant surgery, most agree that the long-term results are worth it.

The recovery process depends on each person, but our aftercare guide is here to help you navigate any discomfort and look forward to a speedy recovery.

Dr. Mark Flynn

The Do's Of Implant-supported Denture Aftercare

Our dentists aim to support you throughout your recovery and go out of their way to ensure unsurpassable dental implant aftercare. Here are our must-do's:

Get Some Rest

We usually fit dental implants with a local anaesthetic or IV sedation, depending on what your dentist feels is best and your personal preferences.

It's natural to feel groggy after the procedure, and getting a lot of rest is vital for your recovery.

You should ensure someone else can drive you home; some people need some time off work. A lot of this depends on whether you had intravenous sedation with an anaesthetist to just local anaesthetic.

Use Pain Relief Techniques

Discomfort after dental implant placement is totally normal, but our dentists will provide recommendations on how to relieve pain before you go home.

To relieve swelling, cold compresses and ice packs should be used on the jaw bone and facial area.

Over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can also reduce discomfort.

However, remember to check whether you can use them if you're taking other medications.

Watch What You Eat

The implant site can initially be sore, and it requires time to heal.

During the healing process, it's best to stay away from hard, chewy foods. Soft foods will protect your mouth and reduce pain around the implant sites.

We recommend yoghurt, pasta, oatmeal, and porridge as soft foods.

Once the dentist fits your dentures, you can enjoy a variety of foods as they clip onto the implants.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Keeping the surgical sites clean is also vital. Your dentist will show you how to maintain oral hygiene after the dental implant procedure, using antiseptic mouthwash and a special type of brush as the sites heal.

Once you've healed from the entire implant support dentures procedure, you'll still need to keep the dentures clean.

Using a toothbrush with cold water twice daily is usually enough, but we also recommend soaking the denture in water with dissolvable cleaning tablets.

Attend Your Appointments After Dental Implant Surgery

It's also essential to see your dentist every six months to check the dentures and implants.

If you notice changes in the fit or feel of the dentures, you should book an appointment immediately.

The dentist will assess your mouth and treat any issues.

The Don'ts Of Implant-Supported Dentures Aftercare

So, now you know what you should do, let's take a look at what you shouldn't do. Following these instructions ensures a speedier recovery and the opportunity to heal properly.

Don't Touch The Implant Site

It can be tempting to touch the implant site with your tongue or finger, but doing this can aggravate the wound and slow down its healing time. There's also a risk of bacteria getting into the site, which can cause infections.

Don't Go Back To Unhealthy Habits

Dentists always recommend patients stop smoking before their implant-supported denture procedure, as it can delay the healing process and restrict the body's collagen production abilities. If you stopped smoking before the procedure, try to stay away from tobacco, as it will still impact your recovery.

Don't Consume Hot Food Or Liquids

While you can consume hot food and liquids during recovery, it's best to avoid them for at least 24 hours after your initial procedure. Hot liquids and foods can cause irritation around the surgical site, which results in more pain.

Don't Use Straws Or Vape

When you use a straw or vape, you make a sucking motion, which can cause problems for your dental implants. It can dislodge blood clots, which causes a range of complications and slows down the healing process.

Speak To Our Implantologists

If you'd like any advice regarding implant retained dentures aftercare, please contact The Modern Dentist today.

Our implantologists are always available to put your mind at ease and support you through the recovery period.