“How can I prevent infection after a dental implant?”
I am a 49 year old female. I want to know how can I prevent infection after a dental implant?
7 Answers
Proper oral hygiene
Always follow your dentist's instructions.
Keep your mouth clean by brushing the teeth near the extraction site. Keep food away from the area and clean after eating. Rinse with warm salt water and/or mouthwash. Should be okay.
Typically, infection is not an issue after placement of a dental implant. Frequently, an antibiotic is prescribed for a few days after the procedure and sometimes starting the day of or the day before. This is typically all that is necessary when an implant is placed. Once it has fully integrated, the implant still requires excellent oral hygiene to maintain is since it is still susceptible to gum disease.
Talk to your dental provider. I usually tell my patients to brush 2-3 times daily, floss 1 time a day. After about 1 week, using a mouthwash is fine. The first week, do salt water rinses (1/2 tsp or salt to a warm 8oz. glass of water). Maintenance is usually pretty easy, but you must put in daily effort to keep your mouth healthy and clean.
Infection is usually not an issue. The Dr. will often prescribe an antibiotic if there is any concern.
Most post-operative dental implant sites do not become infected. As a precaution, your surgeon may prescribe an antibiotic and antiseptic oral rinse. You should also refrain from smoking, if you are a smoker.
