Dental implants not only help improve your smile, but can also correct a malocclusion, or problems with your bite. A dental implant procedure is a multi-step process, which involves tooth extractions. Because the implant procedure involves oral surgery, post-operative infection is possible. Here some tips for preventing an infection after your dental implant procedure.

Infection Prevention After Dental Implant Surgery

Don’t Smoke

Cigarette smoking delays healing after oral surgical procedures and may raise your risk for developing an infection. It is essential for oral circulation be brisk so that socket healing can take place. Cigarette smoking impairs your circulation because it can damage the small capillaries inside your mouth. If you need help with smoking cessation, talk to your doctor to learn about treatment options such as nicotine replacement treatments and oral medications.  

Take Vitamin C

Vitamin C promotes healing and helps reduce your risk for wound infections. It can also help enhance capillary function in both smokers and non-smokers. In addition, vitamin C can also help minimize post-operative bleeding, and may prevent oral hemorrhage in those who have nutritional deficiencies.

Talk to your dentist about dosage options, as taking large doses of supplemental vitamin C can cause side effects. These include heartburn, nausea, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. You can search for a dentist that does dental implants fort collins co in your area.

Treat Sinus Infections

If you have chronic sinusitis and are prone to sinus infections, see your doctor on a regular basis. Bacteria-rich mucus can drip down your throat from your nasal cavity, contaminating your implant surgical sites. Over-the-counter decongestant sprays and saline rinses can sometimes help prevent sinus infections by relieving congestion and washing away bacteria. While most viral sinus infections go away without any treatment, bacterial infections need to be treated with an appropriate antibiotic. While antibiotics will help eliminate … Read more