Full mouth reconstruction is a customized treatment plan that aims to restore the health, function, and beauty of your smile. Often, it involves complex or invasive procedures that come with a bit of a recovery period. What can you expect during this time? Continue reading below to get a realistic preview of the road ahead.
You Might Experience Soreness, Swelling, and Sensitivity
It is common for dental procedures to cause some posttreatment soreness and swelling. The extent of these symptoms depends on the details of your treatment. For example, a filling may make your teeth slightly extra sensitive for a few days, but no downtime is necessary. In contrast, dental implant placement is a major procedure that might require you to stay home for a few days. It can cause discomfort that lasts for up to a couple of weeks.
Recovery Timelines Can Vary
The rate at which your body heals will depend on your treatment plan, your age, your overall health, and other factors. After a major procedure, some patients bounce back pretty quickly. Others take longer. It is important to be patient with yourself. Of course, if you run into any serious questions or concerns while you are healing, you should get in touch with your dentist right away.
How to Make Recovery Easier
Here are some general tips that can support your body’s healing process and minimize post-op discomfort:
- Eat a soft, mild diet. Hard, crunchy, and spicy foods are likely to irritate your mouth. You might also need to temporarily stay away from alcohol and caffeine.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing can help to prevent infections. Of course, you should exercise extreme caution around any surgical sites.
- Get enough rest. Depending on your treatment, you might need to cut back on physical activity for a few days.
- Control discomfort. You may need to take medication to take the edge off any pain you may experience.
- Rinse with warm salt water. This can fight bacteria and soothe irritated tissues.
- Follow specific directions from your dental team. Your dentist might provide specific directions for your recovery. Be sure to prioritize them over any generalized advice that you might come across online.
Recovering from full mouth reconstruction might be easier than you think! Talk to your dental team so you can have realistic expectations for the journey that awaits you.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erin Page has more than a decade of experience in her profession. Throughout the years, she has committed herself to fine-tuning her skills in many aspects of dentistry, including the restorative treatments that are often part of full mouth reconstruction. If you believe you could benefit from this service, our team is prepared to answer your questions. Get in touch with Capital Smiles in Schenectady at 518-374-0317.