Dental implants are an ideal solution for tooth replacement. Once placed and given plenty of time to heal, they look and behave just like your regular teeth. Not only do they appear natural, but they also provide a strong bite that allows you to enjoy all your favorite foods as normal.
Before you reach that point, however, it is important to allow your implants the time they need to fuse with your jawbone, ensuring long-term strength and security. The question is, what should you expect from this recovery period?
Fortunately, dental implant recovery is hassle-free for the majority of patients. Before being discharged from our facility, you will receive plenty of instructions to guide your aftercare and recovery. Following these instructions is key to promoting your comfort and ensuring implant success.
The First 48 Hours
The first couple of days are usually the most challenging, as you may experience some swelling and discomfort. Although, these symptoms can be easily managed with over the counter or prescribed medications.
We recommend sticking to liquids and soft foods that do not require chewing, such as applesauce, broth, and yogurt. It is best to avoid anything extremely spicy or cold and drink with straws.
It is important to prioritize rest and relaxation as much as possible. Dental implant placement is a type of surgery, and after any surgery, your body needs some time to adjust and recuperate.
The First Week
Within the first week of your recovery, symptoms of swelling and discomfort should subside. As you feel comfortable, you can gradually return to a normal diet. We would recommend first switching to soft foods that can be broken apart with just your tongue. This could include foods such as flaky fish, and cottage cheese, among others, that are similar in consistency. Continue to avoid anything hard, crunchy, or sticky as your dental implants heal.
A common question from patients is how much time off from work is required. Most people with dental implants feel ready to resume their normal school or work activities within 1-2 days. However, every patient is different. Some may need more time to recover, which is normal.
The First Month
By the end of the first month, you should no longer feel any discomfort in your mouth and be able to eat anything with the exclusion of hard or crunchy foods. Additionally, you can resume normal exercise within four weeks or so.
The First Six Months
For your dental implants to be fully stable and secure, they must fuse with your jawbone. This process is called osseointegration. Typically, this takes several weeks, potentially up to six months.
Once your implants have fully fused with the surrounding bone, you will return to your oral surgeon’s office for a pre-prosthetic evaluation. At that visit the doctor will confirm osseointegration and either give you the restorative parts that your general dentist will need to create the abutment and crown, or supply them to your general dentist directly. The abutment is a titanium attachment piece, connecting the implant to your porcelain crown. The abutment and crown are usually placed by your general dentist, completing your restoration process.
At this point, you will be free to eat whatever you like and enjoy all your normal activities. Your oral surgeon will provide final instructions for maintaining your implants.
Explore Dental Implant Treatment in Saline, MI
It takes a few months to complete the dental implant process with your oral surgeon and receive the final restoration from your dentist. Patients who receive dental implants often find it worthwhile because it helps them regain a confident smile and a strong, healthy bite. To learn more about dental implants in the Saline, MI area, contact Saline Oral Facial & Dental Implant Surgery. Call us at (734) 547-6003 to set up a consultation.
