If you’re scheduled to receive dental implants to replace your missing teeth, you likely have a lot of questions about what the recovery process will look like and what the success rate is. You can rest assured knowing that the success rate of dental implants is 98%. They are very common and widely used in restorative dentistry to promote a strong jawbone, prevent shifting teeth from gaps, improve biting and chewing, keep your facial structure, and overall, boost your self-confidence. The benefits you’ll experience from dental implants are endless, but yes, the dental implant recovery time may take quite some time. However, that’s not to say it’s complicated.
Here is what you can expect during the surgical procedure and after your dental implant surgery.
How The Dental Implant Procedure Works
Dental implant surgery is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon; those who specialize in surgery of the face, head, jaw and neck areas. If you have a missing tooth, a small slit will be made in your gums and the implant will be surgically attached to your jawbone. Afterwhich, your gums will be stitched up and the healing process can begin. Everyone’s healing journey will be different, but you can expect the process to take anywhere from 4-6 months for your gums and bone to completely heal. Once you’ve completely healed, your artificial tooth can be added (a dental crown) which will mimic the appearance of a natural tooth.
If you require a gum or bone graft before you receive dental implant surgery, the healing process will take even longer, however, it’s a necessary step in order to ensure you don’t experience implant failure. This step will be required if you’re experiencing gum or bone loss where you have missing teeth, or where you have tooth decay. In this case, the infected tooth will need to be removed and then when your gums heal, proceed with the next steps.
After Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implants, like all surgeries, must heal and recover before you can use them. The result of the implant surgery will require a long healing time for your jawbone and dental implant to fuse, mend and begin working together.
That said, there are several things you can do during this recovery period to make it as painless as possible, but remember to follow the aftercare instructions given to you by your oral surgeon/dentist:
Remember To Relax
Change The Gauze Regularly
Clean Carefully
Ice Your Face
Eat Soft Foods
Practice Good Oral Hygiene For Optimal Results
Ultimately, when it comes to the success of dental implants and experiencing minimal discomfort, your best bet is to follow the aftercare instructions laid out by the dental office and visiting your dentist regularly. Implant dentistry is highly successful but only if you’re willing to put in the work too. In order to avoid issues, make sure you’re practicing good oral health, relaxing after any oral surgical procedures, eating soft foods, and rinsing your mouth with warm, saltwater.
