Maintaining the health of your gums is vital to protecting your smile and overall well-being. After periodontal surgery, such as placing a dental implant or other surgeries to address gum diseases, your gums are more susceptible to infection and other complications. With that in mind, your periodontal surgeon in Rochester will take various steps to protect you from such risks, from providing aftercare instructions to scheduling routine check-ups.
The Importance of Post-Treatment Gum Care
Many different types of oral surgeries open the door to potential gum health risks. Having dental implants placed is among the most common examples, as the implant surgery requires cutting through the gums to embed the implants in the jawbone. Related surgeries, such as bone grafting, also introduce similar risks.
Studies indicate that between 4 and 10 percent of dental implant surgeries result in some level of infection.[1] Infection can also spread to affect other tissues, potentially threatening any remaining natural teeth.
Proper post-treatment care is vital to avoid these complications and ensure a comfortable patient experience. Following instructions from your periodontal surgeon will help you avoid discomfort and potential adverse outcomes, providing a smooth experience from start to finish.
How Your Periodontal Surgeon in Rochester Helps
After oral surgery, your periodontal surgeon in Rochester will provide aftercare instructions tailored to your case. In the case of dental implants, you’ll receive a long-term foundation for replacement teeth, so ensuring longevity is key.
Pain management is one area of instruction you’ll be provided with. Some pain and swelling are expected after oral surgery, so your periodontal surgeon will explain options such as medicated oral rinses, cold packs, and pain medication. They may prescribe specific medicines depending on your particular case.
As mentioned earlier, preventing infection is another crucial aspect of ensuring success in dental implant and bone grafting procedures. The opening created in your gums is a potential entry point for bacteria, so your periodontal surgeon will provide the specific instructions necessary to minimize your risk of infection during the healing process. Antibiotics and prescription mouth rinses are usually prescribed.
Long-term gum maintenance is just as essential to achieve positive outcomes from your treatment. Check-ups and other follow-up appointments will allow your periodontal surgeon to monitor your treatment progress and identify any potential issues that require intervention. They will also be able to provide guidance on how to ensure long term success for your dental implants, such as how to safeguard your dental implants.
Special Care Instructions From Your Periodontal Surgeon
Your periodontal surgeon starts planning your post-treatment care from the very start, and the personalized treatment plan they create will focus on your needs, including the proper approach to post-treatment care. Complex procedures, such as grafting and dental implants, require a plan that addresses every stage of the process to ensure optimal healing and long-term success.
Oral hygiene is critical to protecting your gums after treatment. As such, your periodontal surgeon will recommend special techniques and practices to maintain oral hygiene without causing irritation or damage to the healing gum tissue. Specific toothbrushes, toothpastes, flosses, dental bridges, and mini brushes will be reviewed and discussed with you.
Your diet also impacts your healing after treatment, so your periodontal surgeon will provide some guidelines about what you can eat. Many treatments will require softer diets for smoother healing, at least during the first two-four of recovery.
Establishing a schedule for post-surgery rechecks will allow your periodontal surgeon to monitor your healing. Taking a proactive approach can help prevent infection and other complications, maximizing the success of your treatment.
Keeping Up With Routine Visits After Your Treatment
Routine check-ups are essential after oral surgery, as they will allow your periodontal surgeon to spot any potential issues and intervene in time to ensure the best possible outcomes. Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester practices a full range of treatment options, letting you improve the feel and function of your smile.
Schedule a consultation by contacting us online or calling 585-685-2005 today.
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