welcome advice from past and current new teeth now patients
Undergoing full mouth dental implant surgery is a significant step towards restoring your smile, improving your overall oral health, and gaining back many of life’s joys. While the benefits outweigh the recovery process, patients come to us wanting to know all the tips and tricks of making recovery as smooth as possible. Thankfully, the experiences of patients who’ve gone through it before offer valuable insight on what to expect and how to make the journey smoother. Here’s a compilation of advice from past patients on how to navigate your full mouth dental implant recovery effectively and with as little discomfort as possible.
Understanding Recovery: Everyone’s Experience is Different
First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that everyone’s recovery process is unique. Some people may bounce back quickly, within a couple of days, while others might take a little longer to get back to a normal routine again. The key is to listen to your body and give it the time it needs to heal. There are, however, some tips our New Teeth Now patients say are tried-and-true – they can help speed up recovery and make the process more comfortable.
The First Few Days: Managing Pain and Swelling
The initial days following surgery are often the most challenging. Swelling or discomfort around the face, jaw and cheeks is common. To manage these symptoms, many patients recommend using ice packs religiously—20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. This routine can significantly reduce swelling, especially during the first week.
One highly recommended product is an ice pack with Velcro, which allows for easy application without constant adjustment. New Teeth Now patients go home with one on the day of surgery. Bagged frozen veggies, like peas, are also a great choice because patients can mold it to their face and jaw. Beyond cold therapy, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. These are prescribed to you by your surgeon. It’s good to note that although these medications are offered, many of our patients only need a combination of Advil and Tylenol during recovery. Make sure to follow your surgeon’s advice regarding medication.
Nourishment is crucial during the early stages of recovery, but chewing solid food may be uncomfortable. Many patients find that protein shakes are an excellent option during the first few days, providing essential nutrients without the need for chewing. Soft foods such as egg salad, scrambled eggs, pudding, Jell-O, and chicken broth are also easy on your healing mouth and can be gradually introduced as your comfort level increases.
Eating and Food Recommendations: Transitioning to a Normal Diet
As you begin to heal, you’ll be able to reintroduce more solid foods into your diet. However, it’s important to start slow and be mindful of your comfort level. A simple rule of thumb we tell our patients: if you can cut it with a plastic fork, you can eat it.
Favorite soft food options include slow-cooked meatballs, which are tender and easy to eat, and salmon paired with mashed potatoes—a meal that’s both nutritious and gentle. When dining out, one patient noted their favorite restaurant was Olive Garden, where they could enjoy soft options like soup, spaghetti, and breadsticks dipped in soup. And, the leftovers were a bonus! These foods are easy to chew and provide enough variety to keep your meals interesting.
Oral Hygiene: Keeping Your Mouth Clean
Maintaining oral hygiene after dental implant surgery is crucial for a smooth recovery. Many patients emphasize the importance of rinsing your mouth during and after meals to remove food particles that may get stuck around the implants. This simple habit can help prevent infections and ensure that your new implants stay clean. If you’re out and about while eating, swishing water discreetly during meals is another tip from experienced patients, ensuring that food particles are cleared.
For those on the go, carrying small dental brushes can be a lifesaver, allowing you to clean between your teeth even when you’re not at home. A portable water pick is another handy tool, especially for travelers, and can be used in conjunction with an electric toothbrush to keep your mouth spotless.
At home, a regular routine of using a Waterpik device and an electric toothbrush in the morning and evening is recommended. Remember, do not use the Waterpik until approved by your surgeon. New Teeth Now patients receive both a waterpik device and electric toothbrush at their preoperative appointment.
Managing Bruising and Swelling: Tried and True Remedies
Bruising and swelling are common after dental implant surgery, but there are effective ways to manage them. Arnica cream or bruise gel, a popular remedy, is recommended for reducing swelling and bruising, speeding up the healing process.
For those who want to cover up visible bruises, Dermablend makeup is a highly effective option, offering full coverage that even conceals tattoos.
Emotional and Psychological Adjustments: Getting Used to Your New Smile
Beyond the physical recovery, adjusting to your new smile can take time. Many patients share that after years of hiding their teeth, they found it difficult to smile confidently, even after their implants were placed. It’s important to remember that this is a natural part of the process. Practice smiling and showing your teeth in front of a mirror, and give yourself time to get used to your new appearance.
The benefits of the New Teeth Now procedure are undeniable: no more tooth pain, the ability to eat whatever you like, and no more gum issues. As one patient put it, you can finally eat an apple instead of resorting to applesauce. Celebrate these wins and enjoy the freedom that comes with your new smile! The adjustments are worth that beautiful, healthy smile and newfound confidence.
While full mouth dental implant surgery can require a period of adjustment, the knowledge of others who have been through the same experience can help guide you through the recovery process. By following these tips, you can ensure a smoother, more comfortable recovery and get back to enjoying your life with a confident, healthy smile.
You can watch Karen’s transformative journey – pre and post full mouth dental implant surgery here. And, watch her final transformation video here.
