A Healthy Smile Is Important for a Great Overall Appearance

During your implant placement, your dentist will try to utilize as much of your jawbone that you have left. If you have lost a lot of bone in your lower jaw, then it can be difficult to successfully place your implants without damaging the nerve that is located in that area. This nerve is called the inferior alveolar nerve and it provides feeling to your lower lip and chin. In order to protect this nerve, your dentist may perform a nerve repositioning procedure. This procedure is meant to move the nerve out of the way and keep it out of harm's way when your dental implants are placed. During the recovery process, it is important that your mouth remains healthy. Luckily, there are a few tips that you can use to do this.

Use Salt Water Rinses Throughout the Day

One of the biggest concerns after a surgical procedure like a nerve repositioning is a bacterial infection. The hole that was created in order to reach your nerve will need to be kept free of bacteria until that area heals on its own. If any bacteria reaches that area, then it can not only jeopardize your dental implants, but it may damage your nerve. Therefore, you should use a salt water rinse throughout the day in order to reduce bacteria levels in your mouth. The rinse should be used before and after meals and before you go to bed. A basic salt water rinse can quickly be created by adding a tablespoon of salt water into a cup of hot water. Allow the mixture to cool, then use a spoon to stir the mix and make sure the salt has fully dissolved. Gargle with the salt water and direct it to your surgical site. Thoroughly clean around your teeth and gums before spitting.

Consume Liquid Meals Immediately After Surgery

The first few days immediately after surgery are some of the most important days for healing. During this time your surgical site is still fresh and fragile. Eating solid or hard foods can reopen this site and cause contamination. The simplest way to avoid this is by sticking to a liquid diet during the first week after surgery. Liquids will require little to no chewing and will be able to interact with your surgical site without aggravating it. Well-blended smoothies, broths, and soups are good examples of meals that should be eaten after your surgery.

A successful recovery from a nerve repositioning procedure is needed to prepare your mouth for dental implants. Therefore, use these tips to make sure that your mouth remains healthy during your recovery process. For more information, contact a cosmetic dentist, like Hart Dayton DMD.