Dental implants are a popular and effective option for replacing a missing tooth or multiple teeth. Their effectiveness derives from them providing a strong foundation for an artificial tooth that looks and functions like a real tooth. That strength and functionality can make a huge difference to patients in improving their oral health and restoring their smile.
The procedure does require surgery and, like with any surgical treatment, there is a healing process patients need to understand so they can be prepared. It is also important for them to understand the steps of the dental implant treatment.
First, a small post is implanted into the jaw bone where it is left to heal and complete the osseointegration process. That process is the fusion of the implant with the bone. Once that is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant to hold a custom dental crown.
There is an initial phase of recovery with dental implants and then a longer term phase before the artificial tooth can be used. The initial phase normally takes 1-2 weeks and sees your gums fully heal from the oral surgery. While that is happening, your dental implant is also fusing to the bone. That process can take about 3-6 months to fully heal.
For the initial phase of healing from dental implants, you want to make sure you get plenty of rest for the first 24 hours. The area of the implant will be numbed as part of the surgery so the first several hours, you should not feel any pain or discomfort. Once the numbness wears off, expect to feel some pain or discomfort. Your preferred over the counter pain medication should offer relief. You can also expect some minor bleeding throughout the day.
Over the next several days, you may experience some swelling and minor bleeding which should subside more each day. It is recommended to continue to rest and avoid strenuous activity. Once one week is past, you can start to get back to your normal routine with the caveat of continuing to be attentive to the level of discomfort in the surgical area. If you feel pain, slow down and rest. Not every person heals at the same rate; paying attention to what your body is telling you and act accordingly is always a good plan.
By the end of the second week after dental implant surgery, your gums will normally be healed and a follow up appointment will be scheduled with your dentist to check on your status. During that visit, any sutures used in the procedure can be removed or would have naturally dissolved.
Meanwhile the implant is still healing and fusing with the jaw bone. As mentioned above, it will take 3-6 months for that process to complete.
Other general tips for a successful recovery from dental implant treatment:
- Rest – give your body time to heal
- Avoid hard and chewy foods
- Use ice packs to moderate swelling
- Gently rinsing your mouth with salt water can promote healing
- Drink plenty of fluids to rid the body of toxins
- Maintain good oral hygiene by following your dentist’s instructions
- Do not smoke or use a vaping device
Dental implants are a popular and effective treatment for a missing tooth or multiple teeth that can improve your oral health and restore your smile. While reaching the full benefit of dental implants will take some time, many find the results well worth the process. To find out more about dental implants and see if they can help you, please book an appointment online, contact us or call directly at 302-477-1888.
