When you have oral surgery to replace a missing tooth in your mouth, it's important to take care of your oral hygiene. When you choose to go with dental implant technology to replace a missing a tooth, your dentist will talk with you about behaviors that can cause your implants to fail. If you are a smoker, your dentist will probably hold off on implant surgery until you are able to quit. You may also be unable to get dental implants if you are diabetic, but only if your blood sugar levels are out of control. Once implants are placed in your jaw, you will need time to have the implants fuse to your jaw to provide a solid anchor for a synthetic crown.

When Implants Are First Inserted

You may experience some jaw pain when implants are first placed into your jaw bone. The titanium rod will be inserted into the jaw, where it will then slowly fuse with the bone. This will eventually create a solid post for a crown to be placed upon, but the fusion can take several months. When the rod is first inserted, you shouldn't bite down on the implant, smoke, or use a straw. The sucking motion can cause the implant to struggle to embed into the jaw. This is why smoking is also a major reason implants will fail.

Stay Focused on Your Oral Health

Brush gently around the implant, and make sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly several times a day. Ask your dentist about oral rinses that can help heal the area and prevent infection from setting in.

Drink Plenty of Water

To keep your gums healthy, drink plenty of water after you get dental implants inserted. When your gums get dry, they are more susceptible to infection. Your dental implants can fall out if your gums get too dry and your gums get swollen. Infection can set in when you get oral surgery, and water can help keep harmful bacteria out of your mouth.

The day you get your implants placed into your jaw, take it easy. If you need to take ibuprofen to help ease the pain from inflammation, take it. Talk to your dentist about other pain medication options if ibuprofen isn't strong enough. Be careful with your implants, and focus on meals that are liquid or soft food items. Try not to disturb the implant as it heals in your jaw.