There will be millions of Colorado residents that look to run or exercise shortly after going to the dentist’s office. Before you get back to your regular exercise routine in 2021, we suggest reading this article to better understand recovery time after a dental implant.
A small titanium device that is placed in the jaw and serves as a replacement for the root of a missing natural tooth is known as a dental implant. Dental implants are biocompatible and are often used to replace single or multiple missing teeth.
If you get a dental implant, you can expect it to maintain the bone where the tooth was removed so that the jawbone will shrink in all dimensions. Once an implant is installed, it will look and feel like your natural teeth. You’ll be able to eat, drink, brush, and floss as you normally would.
It takes several visits to the dentist to get dental implants installed. At Mile High Smiles, Dr. Brian Levitin specializes in Lakewood, Colorado dental implants and will ensure the procedure is as painless and comfortable as possible. After your dental implants have been installed, he will provide you with post care instructions.
If you exercise on a regular basis, you may wonder whether you’ll be able to get back into working out after your surgery. Dr. Levitin will encourage you to rest the first day following your procedure as bending, lifting, or any strenuous activity may lead to pain, bleeding, and swelling. He will ask you to refrain from exercise for at least 3 to 4 days following the surgery.
Dr. Levitin will also tell you to avoid extremely hot foods and straw usage for the first few days after dental implant surgery. You should stick to liquids and pureed foods such as puddings, yogurt, soups, and milkshakes. In time, you’ll be able to progress to solid foods.
Although it may be difficult to do so, especially if you lead an active lifestyle, you really should spend the first day after surgery hanging out on your couch or bed. Why? Any bending, lifting, or vigorous activity can lead to increased pain, swelling, and bleeding. If you have children or other responsibilities to tend to, ask a trustworthy friend or family member to help you out while you are recovering from your dental implant surgery.
After surgery, you should also be careful if you suddenly stand up as you may feel light headed. Take your time and be careful when going from the lying down position to standing. Once you do get back into your exercise routine 3 or 4 days after surgery, you should begin with light activities. You can practice yoga, walk around your neighborhood or lightly stretch in your living room.
While it may be tempting to do some high intensity training and burn some calories after taking some time off from exercise, doing so can be dangerous. It’s far safer to slowly get back into the swing of your exercise routine. If you notice any pain, breathing problems, or other complications while resuming exercise, stop immediately and consult Dr. Levitin.
If you smoke, you should avoid smoking throughout the entire healing process. Smoking can lead to improper healing and cause infection or inflammation. Keep in mind that if your implants fail because of smoking, they will need to be removed and you’ll have to go through the process of implant surgery once again.
Since every patient has a unique lifestyle and mouth, Dr. Levitin will take time to design a customized post-operative plan for you. To ensure a speedy healing process and optimal results, be sure to follow it to the best of your ability. If you come across any questions or concerns, consult him right away. We are here to help.
Contact Mile High Smiles
For more information on exercise after dental implants, contact Mile High Smiles today at 303-232-1830.
