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5 Mistakes to Avoid After Dental Implant Surgery

5 Mistakes to Avoid After Dental Implant Surgery

5 Mistakes to Avoid After Dental Implant Surgery

According to Topeka Oral Surgery : What to Avoid for a Smooth Recovery

Dental implants are a fantastic way to restore your smile and maintain long-term oral health. These permanent tooth replacements fuse with your jawbone, providing stability and durability. After the procedure, taking proper care is crucial for a smooth recovery. 

Here are five important things to avoid after dental implant surgery:

1. Skipping Rest

Rest is key after dental implant surgery. Avoid physical activities that might increase your blood pressure and lead to bleeding. Most people need one to two days of rest, while others might require up to a week for full recovery. We advise to avoid physical contact sports for 1 week.

2. Rinsing Too Forcefully

Rinse your mouth gently. Harsh rinsing or spitting can irritate the surgical site and cause sutures to fall out. Use a mild saltwater solution (half a teaspoon of salt in one cup of water) or nonalcoholic mouthwash to keep the area clean without causing irritation.

3. Using a Straw

Avoid straws for at least 72 hours.. The suction can disturb the blood clot around the implant site, increasing the risk of bleeding, infection, or delayed healing. Instead, stick to soft foods like smoothies, but sip directly from the cup.

4. Eating Hard or Spicy Foods

Hard, crunchy, or spicy foods can irritate the sensitive surgical area. Stick to soft, gentle foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, or scrambled eggs until your mouth heals. Slowly start eating your regular foods as your mouth heals.

5. Ignoring Persistent Pain

Swelling and soreness are normal for a few days, but persistent pain should not be ignored. Contact your surgeon immediately if discomfort doesn’t improve after day five, as it might signal an issue requiring attention.

Recovery Matters

Taking these precautions will help ensure proper healing and set you on the path to enjoying a full, healthy smile again. Trust the team at Topeka Oral Surgery to provide expert care and guidance throughout the process.

About Topeka Oral Surgery

Topeka Oral Surgery is committed to helping you with any oral surgery necessary.. Their skilled team provides comprehensive guidance on dental implants and post-surgery care to support a smooth recovery. Ready to get started? Visit their website to learn more or schedule an appointment today!

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      Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
      Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
      Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
      Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
      Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
      Saturday: By Appointment
      Sunday: Closed
      Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
      Saturday: By Appointment
      Sunday: Closed

      How to Avoid Dry Socket After a Tooth Extraction?

      How to Avoid Dry Socket After a Tooth Extraction?

      How to Avoid Dry Socket After a Tooth Extraction?

      Tooth Extraction and Dry Socket Prevention at - Topeka Oral Surgery

      Tooth extraction is a routine procedure that many people undergo at some point. While the procedure itself is simple, the healing process needs some care to avoid issues like dry socket. Dry socket happens when the blood clot in the extraction site is lost or dissolves too early, exposing the bone and nerves, causing pain and slowing recovery. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce the chance of dry socket.
      Follow Post-Extraction Care Instructions Your dentist will give you specific instructions to follow after the extraction. These usually include:
      • Bite Down on Gauze: Right after the extraction, bite down on a piece of gauze to help stop bleeding and form a clot. Keep it in place for 30-45 minutes and change it as needed.
      • Avoid Spitting and Rinsing: Although it may feel natural to rinse your mouth, avoid doing so for the first 24 hours. Spitting or rinsing can remove the blood clot.
      • Avoid Smoking for the first 3 days postoperatively!
      • Manage Pain and Swelling: Use pain relievers as advised by your dentist and apply an ice pack to your cheek to reduce swelling.
      Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol Smoking and using tobacco products increase the risk of dry socket. Inhaling can disturb the blood clot, and tobacco slows healing. If you smoke, try to avoid it for at least 72 hours after the extraction. Alcohol can also affect healing by thinning the blood and interfering with pain medication, so it’s best to avoid it during recovery.
      Modify Your Diet What you eat after the extraction can help or hinder healing. Stick to soft foods and liquids like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes for the first few days. Avoid crunchy or chewy foods that might disturb the healing area.
      • Avoid Using Straws: The sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot, so drink directly from a glass or use a spoon.
      • Avoid Hot Foods and Drinks: Hot items can dissolve the clot prematurely, so stick to cooler foods and drinks for the first 24 hours.

      Contact Topeka Oral Surgery for Support

      At Topeka Oral Surgery, we specialize in making your oral healthcare experience as easy and comfortable as possible. Our team is dedicated to providing excellent care in a relaxing environment. Our patients rarely experience dry socket ! Feel free to connect with us for a consultation.

      Request an Appointment

      Appointment

          Hours of Operation

          Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Saturday: By Appointment
          Sunday: Closed
          Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Saturday: By Appointment
          Sunday: Closed

          Can Tooth Extraction Cure Gum Disease?

          Can Tooth Extraction Cure Gum Disease?

          Can Tooth Extraction Cure Gum Disease
          If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, you might be wondering what to do next. In some cases, your dentist may suggest removing a tooth or teeth that can’t be saved. The goal is to improve your oral health and minimize inflammation.

          What is Gum Disease?

          Gum Disease
          Gum disease happens when bacteria infect your gums, causing them to swell and bleed. If not treated, this can lead to gum recession, exposed tooth roots, and even the loss of bone and eventual tooth loss.

          Why Might I Need a Tooth Extraction? - Topeka Oral Surgery

          If your dentist suggests extracting a tooth due to gum disease, it’s likely because the tooth will eventually fall out on its own. Removing it early helps the dentist better treat the gum disease and prepares your jaw for a replacement like a dental implant by minimizing bone loss from the inflammation.

          Other Ways to Treat Gum Disease

          Besides tooth extraction, your dentist may recommend treatments such as:
          • Bone grafts to repair jawbone loss.
          • Gum grafts to cover exposed roots and prevent sensitivity.
          • Pocket reduction surgery to help gums reattach to your teeth, keeping bacteria away from the roots.

          How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

          Gum disease can be prevented with good habits, including:
          • Brushing twice daily and flossing once a day.
          • Seeing your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
          • Not smoking.
          • Balanced Diet with minimal sugar exposure
          Remember, removing damaged teeth won’t cure gum disease on its own, but it’s often a necessary step in treatment. If your dentist recommends extraction, understanding the benefits of the procedure is important.

          About Our Practice

          If you need a tooth extraction for gum disease, we’re here to help. At Topeka Oral Surgery, we’ve been providing excellent care in a comfortable environment for years. To schedule an appointment fill out the form below or call us at (785) 228-0500.

          Request an Appointment

          Appointment

              Hours of Operation

              Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Saturday: By Appointment
              Sunday: Closed
              Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Saturday: By Appointment
              Sunday: Closed

              What Happens If a Missing Tooth Is Not Replaced

              What Happens If a Missing Tooth Is Not Replaced

              Teeth can be lost for several reasons, with the most common causes being trauma, tooth decay, and gum disease. Some individuals may also be born without certain teeth due to genetic factors that run in families. If you’re considering the hassle and cost of getting a new tooth versus doing nothing, it’s essential to understand the potential health issues associated with missing teeth. The oral surgeons at Topeka Oral Surgery highlight several health problems that may arise if teeth are not replaced.

              Health Problems Linked to Missing Teeth

              Failing to replace missing teeth can lead to various health issues:

              Difficulty Eating:

              Missing teeth can make it challenging to chew certain foods, such as steak, raw fruits and vegetables, and nuts. This can result in an unbalanced diet, potentially leading to health problems like heart disease or anemia.

              Misalignment of Other Teeth:

              When a tooth is missing, surrounding teeth may shift into the gap over time. This shifting can lead to a crooked smile, jaw misalignment, bite issues, and even joint pain.

              Headaches and Jaw Pain:

              As teeth shift, they can misalign the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) that connect your jaw to your skull. This misalignment can cause headaches, jaw discomfort, and facial pain.

              Increased Risk of Tooth Decay:

              With shifting teeth, it becomes more challenging to clean all surfaces properly when brushing or flossing. This can lead to plaque buildup, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which may result in further tooth loss.

              Changes in Face Shape:

              Teeth support your jaw and stimulate bone growth. Even an artificial tooth helps maintain this structure. Without replacement, the jawbone can shrink, leading to a sunken appearance in the face.

              Options for Tooth Replacement

              We provide a range of tooth replacement options designed to meet your specific needs. With our emphasis on pain-free dentistry and our knowledge of sedation and anesthesia, you can expect a comfortable experience.

              Popular tooth replacement options:

              1. Dental Implants

              Made of durable titanium posts inserted into the jaw, dental implants paired with natural-looking porcelain crowns provide a permanent solution for tooth replacement. They stimulate jawbone growth and feel like real teeth, making them suitable for replacing one or multiple teeth, or even a full arch, as long as there is enough healthy bone. It is impossible to get a cavity on a dental implant.

              2. Dental Bridges

              Traditional bridges consist of prepping the tooth in front and behind of the missing tooth. Then a three unit bridge is cemented on the both anchor teeths that were prepped. It is possible to get decay under the crowns which would lead to making a new bridge. This is commonly caused from routine wear and tear.

              Need to Replace a Missing Tooth?

              Contact us to explore the various tooth replacement options available at Topeka Oral Surgery. Whether you need a single tooth replaced, multiple teeth done in a single day, or bone and soft tissue grafting under anesthesia, our experienced oral surgeons and caring staff are here to help you achieve a lasting smile.

              Request an Appointment

              Appointment

                  Hours of Operation

                  Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Saturday: By Appointment
                  Sunday: Closed
                  Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Saturday: By Appointment
                  Sunday: Closed

                  Is It Safe to Drive After a Tooth Extraction – Topeka Oral Surgery

                  Is It Safe to Drive After a Tooth Extraction - Topeka Oral Surgery

                  Medical procedures can bring up many questions, especially when planning for a tooth extraction without sedation.
                  Do you need time off work or school? How long will the procedure take? Can you drive yourself to and from the appointment?
                  Whether it’s safe to drive after a tooth extraction depends on the type of anesthesia your oral surgeon uses during the procedure.

                  Types of Anesthesia

                  There are different types of anesthesia mentioned below. Your oral surgeon will choose the best anesthesia based on how complex the extraction and based on your medical history. Here’s a quick guide:

                  Local anesthesia

                  This is when we inject lidocaine around the tooth that is being extracted. This means you can drive yourself to and from your appointment without worrying about safety because the anesthesia doesn’t affect your overall alertness.

                  Minimal sedation

                  We commonly use nitrous oxide - aka laughing gas. After this type of sedation, you should still be safe to drive home because it doesn’t leave you feeling groggy or impaired

                  Moderate to Deep Sedation:

                  This type uses a pill or IV to make you feel like you’re in a light sleep. It can make you feel drowsy and confused for a few hours afterward. It’s important to arrange for a ride home because you shouldn’t drive until you’re completely alert and the effects have worn off.

                  If your procedure requires sedation, your oral surgeon will inform you in advance. This way, you can arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment. If you have any questions or concerns about the type of anesthesia that will be used, make sure to ask your provider before the procedure.

                  Topeka Oral Surgery is Here for Your Tooth Extractions

                  If you need a simple tooth extraction without sedation or a more complicated one, our expert team at Topeka Oral Surgery can help. Our skilled oral surgeons have a lot of experience with all types of tooth extractions and other oral surgeries. We are dedicated to providing high quality oral surgery.

                  Request an Appointment

                  Appointment

                      Hours of Operation

                      Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                      Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                      Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                      Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                      Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                      Saturday: By Appointment
                      Sunday: Closed
                      Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                      Saturday: By Appointment
                      Sunday: Closed

                      Can a Broken Loose Tooth Be Saved ?

                      Can a Broken Loose Tooth Be Saved ?

                      Losing a tooth unexpectedly, whether through an accident or injury, can be a distressing experience. However, it doesn’t have to mark the end of your smile. Factors like the time the tooth was out, its condition, and any associated injuries play a role in the possibility of successful replantation. By following essential guidelines on handling, storing, and replanting the tooth, you can significantly increase the chances of restoring it to your smile. Topeka Oral Surgery explores the possibility of saving a broken loose tooth or replacing it with a dental implant in this blog.

                      Handling Tips

                      Act swiftly when dealing with a knocked-out tooth; time is crucial. Start by ensuring the tooth’s preservation and protection, as this significantly impacts the chance of successful replantation. You can place the tooth in milk, balanced salt solution, your cheek, or saline. The goal is to reimplant immediately but if cannot then keep the tooth moist and seek a provider to reimplant the avulsed tooth within hours.

                      Here are key tips to remember:

                      Handle with care:

                      Avoid touching the delicate roots; instead, hold the tooth by its crown, the chewing surface to minimize trauma to the root surface or contamination.

                      Rinse gently:

                      If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water while handling the chewing surface. Avoid soap, chemicals, or vigorous scrubbing to prevent further damage.

                      Proper storage is vital to enhance the likelihood of successful replantation. There are several options available:

                      Cheek placement:

                      Keep the tooth gently next to your cheek to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. This method is effective if you can promptly see your emergency dentist or oral surgeon.

                      Saliva preservation:

                      If placing the tooth in your mouth isn't feasible, store it in a clean container covered with saliva. Saliva helps maintain moisture and vitality until dental care is sought.

                      Emergency preservation kit:

                      If other options aren't possible, use an emergency tooth preservation kit from pharmacies. These kits provide an optimal environment for short-term storage, maximizing chances of successful replantation.

                      Immediate Dental Attention

                      After rinsing and storing the tooth, seek prompt dental attention. An oral surgeon or dentist specializing in emergency care can replant the tooth if it’s healthy and uninfected.
                      Though losing a tooth can be emotionally challenging, remember that there are options available, and caring professionals are ready to assist you through the restoration process. Contact an oral surgeon specializing in facial trauma promptly to schedule a replantation visit. Time is critical; delaying care increases the risk of irreversible damage and requires a dental implant to replace the avulsed tooth. Topeka Oral Surgery offers advanced solutions for facial trauma, including replanting knocked-out teeth or replacing lost teeth with dental implants when replantation isn’t feasible. Contact Topeka Oral Surgery today to begin your healing journey together.

                      Request an Appointment

                      Appointment

                          Hours of Operation

                          Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Saturday: By Appointment
                          Sunday: Closed
                          Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Saturday: By Appointment
                          Sunday: Closed

                          When Do You Need a Tooth Extraction?

                          When Do You Need a Tooth Extraction?

                          Sometimes, even if you try hard to take care of your teeth, you might still need to get a tooth pulled out.

                          When Topeka Oral Surgery suggests taking out a tooth, it’s because they have a good reason to do so, which more often than not is due to there not being enough space or simply because a tooth is unrestorable.

                          Severe Decay

                          Severe tooth decay happens when acid and plaque stick to your teeth. Signs of decay include:
                          Even if decay doesn’t hurt, it’s important to see your dentist often to catch it early. If a tooth is too decayed to save, it might need to be pulled out or it may need a root canal treatment to help remove infection from the tooth’s pulp.

                          Severe Impaction - Disturbance in Eruption

                          When you’re a baby, your teeth start coming through your gums. If a tooth doesn’t come in or only partly comes in, it’s called an impacted tooth.

                          Impacted teeth can get stuck in your gums or bone for different reasons, such as not having enough room in your mouth. This often happens with wisdom teeth, but it can happen to any tooth. Symptoms are like those of decay but usually hurt more:

                          You might notice a gap where the tooth should be, but usually, only your dentist can tell for sure.

                          Impacted teeth can push into other teeth, causing more problems. They can also trap food and plaque. If an impacted tooth is causing big problems, it might need to be taken out. Not all impacted teeth need to be removed and thus that is why a consultation and 3D imaging are quite important.

                          Misalignment Of The Smile

                          Sometimes, there’s not enough room in your mouth for all your teeth to line up nicely. This makes your teeth push against each other and move out of place, messing up your smile.  Coordination with the orthodontist can allow strategic extraction to help level and align an ideal smile if there is inadeqaute space.

                          If you want to know more about getting a tooth pulled, check out Topeka Oral Surgery’s website

                          Request an Appointment

                          Appointment

                              Hours of Operation

                              Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                              Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                              Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                              Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                              Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                              Saturday: By Appointment
                              Sunday: Closed
                              Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                              Saturday: By Appointment
                              Sunday: Closed