How Long Does It Take to Heal From Dental Implant Placement?

Dental Implant Bryan, TX

Dental implant placement requires a period of recovery. Understanding the expected amount of time that it takes to recover and learning useful tips on how to help your mouth heal faster are certainly helpful when preparing mentally and physically for the dental implant placement and aftercare process. 

How dental implant placement and aftercare works

Dental implants are placed into the jaw through a minor surgical procedure. The patient does not feel anything during the procedure due to anesthesia, but being able to manage the discomfort, prevent infection and ensure that the implant can properly fuse with the jaw are essential. The following is a review of dental implant placement and what to expect during and after the placement procedure. 

A review of dental implants

A dental implant is a metal post that is placed into the jawbone beneath or below a missing tooth (or multiple missing teeth). They serve as an anchor or root for a replacement tooth, which is typically a crown for single tooth replacement. They are non-removable (unlike dentures) and last much longer than dentures or fixed bridges on average. They also offer exceptional functionality benefits, allowing the patient to eat how they desire. Patients can also care for their dental implants the same way as they would natural teeth. 

What to expect during implant placement

Before implant placement, the patient may require a bone graft procedure. This ensures that there is enough bone in the jaw to support the implant. Once the mouth is ready, the implant placement procedure is scheduled. This procedure involves making an incision into the gums, drilling a small hole into the jawbone and placing the dental implant post into the jaw. Once the mouth heals, the abutment and replacement tooth are placed. 

What to expect after implant placement

The patient does not feel anything during the procedure, but there is typically pain, swelling, minor bleeding and soreness after implant placement. The patient can manage the pain through pain relief medication, eating a soft diet and practicing good oral hygiene. It typically takes between seven and 10 days for the mouth to heal, and the patient can return to normal activity afterward. The implant must go through osseointegration, which refers to the process of the implant fusing together with the jawbone. This takes anywhere from two to six months. 

Tips for making the implant heal faster

As mentioned, pain relief medication (anti-inflammatory), a soft diet and good oral hygiene can speed up the recovery process. It is also encouraged to avoid activities that may result in a blow to the face and subsequently damage the implant or affected area. Patients should also make a strong effort to make all scheduled follow-up visits without rescheduling. 

Talk to a licensed dental implant dentist today

Our dental team helps patients through the dental implant placement process, ensuring that they are comfortable and have all their questions answered along the way. Call us or send us an email today to get the treatment process started.

Request an appointment here: http://www.riversdentistry.com or call Rivers Family Dentistry at (979) 710-2216 for an appointment in our Bryan office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Bryan, TX.

Related Posts

Dental Implants: A Solution For Missing Teeth

Dental implants are an effective and modern way to go about replacing missing teeth. If you are missing a tooth, you are not alone in your predicament; most people lose one or more of their permanent teeth over the course of their lives. People lose teeth due to trauma to the face, aging, or oral…

Dental Implant To Replace Single Missing Tooth

A single missing tooth can present many problems that a dental implant can avoid. A single-tooth implant is designed to replace the root of your tooth. It will work and look like your natural teeth and help prevent complications associated with missing teeth. If you are considering getting an implant, it is important that you…

How A Dental Implant Replaces A Missing Tooth

Replacing missing teeth with dental implants can result in a stable and strong bite. It restores the crown and the root. Knowing how this dental replacement system replaces a missing tooth can convince you to set an appointment with your dentist about it. Here are the details about how dental implants can make this happen.Tooth…

Understanding The Dental Implant Process

Dental implants replace missing teeth and help with chewing, speaking, and smiling. They can consist of titanium or a combination of titanium and ceramic materials. Dental implants serve as anchors for artificial replacements: full dentures, partial dentures, dental crowns, and bridges. If you are considering dental implants, this guide will help you know what to…

Related Posts

What To Ask A General Dentist At Your First Appointment

What To Ask A General Dentist At Your First Appointment

Whether you have not visited the dentist in a long time, have never been, or are simply switching general dentists, it is normal to have questions on your mind. Patients often want to ask about their current oral health, such as whether they need to be worried about cavities or persistent tooth sensitivity. They may…

How To Care For Your New Dental Crowns

How To Care For Your New Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a valuable investment in your oral health and smile's appearance. Whether you have received crowns to restore damaged teeth or for cosmetic reasons, it is important to properly care for them to ensure they last a long time. Here are some essential tips to help maintain the longevity and aesthetics of your…