Facts About Dental Implant Recovery Process

One of the most common concerns regarding dental implants is the recovery process. Dental implant surgery is an invasive procedure, so you should expect recovery to take some time. However, knowing what to expect and preparing in advance will make recovery much easier. Here are the most important facts about dental implant recovery:

Some discomfort is expected.

While you shouldn’t expect extreme pain after getting dental implants, you could experience some discomfort after the surgery. Swelling and bruising of the gums, pain, and minor bleeding are all normal after receiving dental implants.

Dentists sometimes prescribe pain medicine after the surgery, but over-the-counter painkillers often provide enough relief. If your symptoms start to get worse several days after the surgery, you should contact your dentist.

The dental implants must heal before you receive crowns.

Surgery for dental implants can be a lengthy process because it involves a few steps. Dentists cannot attach the crown until the jaw has healed around the implant, so recovery from the implant surgery is not the end of the road. While your jaw is healing, your dentist will apply a temporary crown or bridge.

It typically takes three to six months of recovery before you can get the permanent crown or bridge. You won’t experience pain or discomfort for most of this time, though.

Post-surgery care is critical.

There are several steps you can take at home to minimize your discomfort and speed up the healing process. Your Sherman Oaks dentist will go over post-surgery instructions with you in detail.

Plan to stay home for a couple days following the surgery. You’ll also have to avoid strenuous activities for about a week while the surgical site heals. Your dentist may recommend that you rinse your mouth with saltwater for a day or two instead of brushing to protect the implant site.

Recovery varies from person to person.

Dental implant recovery time and post-surgery care instructions can vary significantly depending on your unique situation. If you only need one tooth replaced, your experience after the surgery may be very different from someone who needs several implants.

Some patients need a bone graft if they don’t have sufficient bone to support the implant, but other patients can skip this step and receive the implant surgery right away. If you need a bone graft, you may need several extra months of recovery before you can get dental implants.

Surgery for dental implants is a major procedure, so you should give yourself plenty of time to heal. With proper care and rest, though, recovery should go smoothly. If you have any questions about dental implants, reach out to your Sherman Oaks dentist to learn more.