When you have dental implants you will have a lot of information to keep track of regarding the procedure and the recovery. This can make it difficult for you to know just what to expect after you go through the procedure. If you are going to be getting dental implants, you should read the information below so you are well-informed of what you can expect those first few days after getting your implants.

You may be a little out-of-it right after the procedure: The amount of drowsiness you experience after the procedure will really depend on whether or not you were given an anesthesia to put you to sleep for the procedure. If you were given only a local numbing agent, then you will be alert afterward. However, if you were asleep, then it will take you long enough to come out of it that you better plan on having someone else with you who can drive you home. In fact, you won't want to get behind the wheel of an automobile for the next 24 hours.

The pain you experience can vary greatly: Each person has their own level of pain tolerance and some require more work during the procedure than others. This makes it hard to say how much pain you will feel. If the dentist feels you are going to experience a high level of pain then they will give you something for pain. If they don't then you should use an over-the-counter pain reliever to get you through your recovery. You can also use an ice pack on the outside of your mouth to help ease discomfort.

Eat carefully at first: You want to avoid eating for a couple hours after you have had the implants put in. When you do go to eat, stick to foods such as yogurt, pudding and other soft choices for that first day. You won't want to eat anything hot or foods that require a lot of chewing for the first day or so. Stay away from sucking for the first day; this means avoiding eating things such as suckers or popsicles and don't drink from straws.

Get back into your oral hygiene routine slowly: You can start gently brushing your teeth with a soft toothbrush the day after your procedure. However, you should delay flossing until your mouth feels completely healed. Make sure you refrain from using mouthwash for at least a couple of weeks after getting implants.

Everyone's recovery will be different depending on the circumstances regarding their case, the information above will help you have a better understanding of what your recovery may be like. You'll also want to follow the tips to ensure proper healing. For more information, contact a dentist, like those at Dentistry For the Entire Family.