Of all restorative dental procedures in cosmetic dentistry Los Angeles residents may need, dental implants seem to be the most popular. If you have recently undergone a dental implant procedure, you may want to check out the basic aftercare instructions for dental implants according to cosmetic dentists in Los Angeles.

Oral Hygiene

Just because you have dental implants does not mean you will be exempted from brushing your teeth. Some patients find brushing a very challenging task during the first few days after an implant, but most dentists would say that brushing should never be a problem. Patients are advised to continue brushing their teeth except the surgical area for the first few days to prevent irritation and contamination. The same thing goes with flossing. Your dentist may also recommend chlorhexidine mouth rinse that you must only use 12 hours after the procedure.

Medication

Common medications for a typical dental implant in Los Angeles include antibiotics and pain killers. Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent infection; while pain killers help you manage the pain, if there’s any, once the local anesthesia wears off. If you are allergic to a certain type of pain reliever, the dentist should be able to prescribe an alternative.

Food

Aside from medication, dentists will also remind that you stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few weeks. Yogurt, soup, and pudding are examples of soft kinds of food. Avoid hot or cold food until the surgical area is cleared by your dentist. You will also be advised to take it easy when chewing and to keep food particles away from the surgical area.

Checkups

During the first year, most cosmetic dentists require at least three to four checkups. Follow up treatments are also prescribed to maintain the health of the implant. A responsible dentist will have to check your jawbone and the fit of the implant and if necessary, prescribe follow-on restorative treatment.

Other Activities

Another reminder that your dentist is most likely going to give you is to get plenty of rest. You will have to take time off from work, as you need to refrain from strenuous activities such as driving. If you want to recover as soon as possible, avoid exercising and engaging in contact sports for a few weeks. Smoking is also a big no as advised by any cosmetic dentist Los Angeles residents can count on like Dr. Armen Mirzayan. In most cases, patients will be advised to quit smoking as long as possible after the procedure.