Are you looking to replace missing teeth? Maybe you’re interested in getting dental implants but aren’t sure what the recovery process looks like or how it will impact your life. The dental implant process can take several months from beginning to end. Most of that time is dedicated to the healing process and waiting for new jawbone growth to anchor the implants.
Important things to know about the healing process:
- Managing pain is typically done with over-the-counter medications and cold compresses
- Getting back to activities usually happens in 3-4 days
- Stopping smoking is key, as it can cause infection and implant failure
- Oral hygiene is important because it keeps the site clean and supports healing
- Follow-up care through regular dental visits helps your dentist catch any complications
Getting dental implants in Arvada, CO, represents a significant step toward restoring your smile and oral health. Let’s walk through the healing process to help you prepare for what lies ahead. Better preparation leads to better recovery.
The First Week Post-Surgery
Any dental surgery comes with discomfort, and it’s very likely that you’ll experience some pain, especially right after your procedure. Normal side effects might include some swelling around the gums and face, bruising, implant site pain, and minor bleeding. You should avoid eating hard foods during your healing process.
Your dentist or surgeon will give you specific instructions about the type and quantity of pain medication to use after surgery, including any antibiotics you might need. You should also follow their wound care instructions closely and keep up your oral hygiene routine as instructed. Smoking during this time can lead to infection or implant failure.
The authors of a patient questionnaire and study published in the Medicina journal came to several conclusions about implant surgery recovery:
- Patients recovered within 4 days, barring complications
- Women recovered more slowly (within this particular study)
- People with implants placed in the front of their mouth had some eating difficulties for a week
- The number of implants placed during the same procedure didn’t impact recovery (within the confines of this study)
The Following Months and Osseointegration
After surgery, most people spend 3-8 months healing, while their implants undergo osseointegration. This means that the jawbone and implant are forming a connection, which gives the implant a strong foundation. Essentially, the jawbone grows into and joins up with the dental implant. Osseointegration approximates tooth roots and takes several months.
During the healing process, your dentist will keep an eye on your progress. When it’s stable, they’ll place a natural-looking tooth restoration (crown) on your implants to finish the process.
Looking for a Dental Implant Dentist in Arvada, CO?
If you’re considering getting dental implants in Arvada, CO, Dr. Jesse Jenkins and the team at Five Parks Dental are ready to get you started on your implant journey. Consider giving us a call at (303) 456-4745 to schedule an appointment.