In Reply to: After having an implant in Melbourne posted by JennyWren on Thursday, 10. September 2009 at 14:32 Bali Time:
Dr G gives antibiotics (and painkillers, mouthwash etc) for aftercare. I took my own as I am allergic to penicillin. You should take antibiotics because yes, it is an invasive procedure. My dental surgeon back home said that what is really important is that you brush and floss not just around any implant but all teeth every day afterwards, forever. He also said most mouthwashes are relatively ineffective -except Savacol. He recommended the Oral B floss that comes in a box and has a 'fluffier' thread, and to use it gently and very slowly so you don't hurt your gum.
Another thing is that when an implant is screwed in it feels really secure - and it is. However, over the next 4-6-8 weeks the bone around it changes-reconstitutes and then firms up again- so that time is when the tooth is less secure. In 3-6 months it should be as secure as the tooth that you grew yourself.
Personal dental hygiene is very important. I thought Dr G should have given more info about aftercare. I was scared to floss around it too soon and got a minor infection and needed a second dose of antibiotics and discovered I should have been flossing from the day or so after it was inserted (dip the floss in Savacol first).
My dentist was not thrilled that I had got a titanium implant and crown for a top front tooth (and overseas), but I know I will look after it well. I did lots of research, both on the mini-implants and references to Dr G over last 5 years or so, so I did make an informed choice.
The dental profession is pretty much divided about the mini-implants, some for, some against. Part of it is that they are relatively new and there is no data about what effect in the mouth after a decade or two. Also that the lack of dental hygiene that has contributed to people needing such dental work means that the person may not look after their teeth properly after the procedure.
My own dental surgeon said it is important that you find out the name and model of any implant you have put in because there are about 200 different ones on the international market and if you need any remedial work done in the future at home they need to know what they are dealing with - so do ask and write it down somewhere.
One of the reasons why the procedures are faster in Bali than at home is that your dentist at home may be sending overseas for the crown you are having - to laboratories like the one Dr G has at his premises (he gets orders and sends them all over the world). In Bali your new tooth is being made within 24 hours in the same city.