Getting dental implants installed is a great decision that will dramatically improve your smile and quality of life. The first week or so after the implants are put in can sometimes be pretty rough, though. Your dentist will likely have a plan for you to follow, but if you want additional advice, keep these tips in mind.

Salt Water Can Help

If you don't like the idea of being drugged up to stop the pain, salt water can be your friend. Mix one tablespoon of salt with 8 to 10 ounces of water and heat so that it is lukewarm but not burning hot. Gently swish the solution around in your mouth for some natural pain relief. Salt water can also help you stem excessive bleeding, although keep in mind that if the bleeding continues non-stop, you should contact your dentist right away.

You Still Need to Brush

While you will likely be on a liquid diet for the first few days, you still need to gently brush your teeth to keep them as clean as possible. Be careful to use very little pressure while doing this, and don't be alarmed if a little bit of blood seeps out while you brush. For best results, make sure you use a brand new toothbrush immediately after the surgery so your mouth does not get contaminated by any of the bacteria on your old brush.

Be Prepared for a Sore Throat or Stiff Jaw

Your gums are not the only part of your body that will be experiencing difficulties. It's not uncommon for your throat to become sore after oral surgery or for your jaw to become especially stiff. Treat your sore throat with over-the-counter medication, and be sure to gently stretch your jaw daily to prevent excessive stiffness. Other potential issues could include light bruising or dry mouth. If the symptoms last longer than a few days, contact your dentist for advice.

Undergoing a full mouth rehabilitation will leave you feeling pretty good about your smile in the long run, but the first few days or weeks after oral surgery can be difficult to get through. Just remember to keep your mouth as sanitized and clean as possible. You can also take advantage of any pain medications your dentist prescribes or stick to salt water if you prefer a more natural solution.

Contact your dentist immediately if you are having an especially rough go of it or if you notice excessive bleeding.