So, you’ve been through the surgery and you have finally had your oral implants fitted. Excellent!
Not only are oral implants the most permanent way to restore teeth that have been lost through decay or injury, but they also require the least amount of care when compared to other restoratives. Simply brush, floss and get them to your dentist every 6 months for a check-up and your implants should last a long time!
But once at home, you may have some concerns about your newly fitted implants. How much swelling is normal? What does that tingling sensation indicate?
In this short guide, 5 key things to watch out for after having oral implants fitted will be discussed, so you can keep your implants and your mouth in good condition. Enjoy!
Swelling
OK, so after having a dental implant Melbourne fitted, your gums are going to be swollen for a few days or maybe up to a week. This is completely normal.
However, prolonged swelling is a sign that there is an issue and can be an indicator of an infection. Even if the swelling isn’t uncomfortable to touch, you should always seek to get it looked at by a dentist if it is worsening or causing your implant to protrude.
If you notice swelling underneath where the implant has been placed, then this should also be explored urgently.
Discolouration
Much like the swelling, post-implant fitting, your gums are going to be a bit discoloured due to bruising.
One way to mitigate this with pain relief is to take medication such as paracetamol and to avoid those that thin the blood such as ibuprofen or aspirin. But if the bruising becomes excessive and the surrounding gum line looks blue, purple or even a very deep red, this is a sign that there may be an infection or an uncontrolled bleed.
Either way, if you are worried about any discolouration on your gum line after you have had tooth implants fitted, please talk to your dentist.
Discomfort
Discomfort, after you have had an oral implant fitted, is to be expected. After all, it did require a small surgical procedure.
But extensive discomfort is a sign of an issue and, if your discomfort is lasting for a long time or is worsening, then you should seek medical attention. Also, if you are taking over-the-counter pain relief and it is now ceasing to have the same effect that it did immediately after your implants were fitted, this is a sign that you need to have your implants looked at.
Movement
You may have been told by your dentist that some movement of the implant is to be expected while it fuses and that you should avoid putting it under strain. This is all true.
However, if you notice that the visible part of the implant is wobbling when you are brushing your teeth or eating, you should contact your dentist for an assessment to ensure that the implant hasn’t come loose and that it isn’t damaged.
Visible bone loss
If you notice that the jawbone under or around your newly fitted implant is receding or vanishing, this can point to implant failure and should be explored by your dentist as soon as possible.
DISCLAIMER
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
