The dental implant procedure: Explained

In general, this surgical procedure involves inserting the provisional or artificial teeth through the gums, all the way to the jawbone. The initial step is to place the titanium rod into the jawbone. This might take 1–2 weeks to heal. After this, the abutment is attached, which again takes another 2 weeks to heal. Then comes the actual (crown) tooth placement on the abutment. Read more on the ins and outs of the dental implant placement procedure or surgery here!

Here’s what happens after the surgery:

• Usually, doctors recommend resuming work two or three days after the crown attachment.
• Patients might experience slight swelling, bleeding, or pain after two to four days, which can be relieved with the help of pain relief or OTC medications.
• The feeling of discomfort seems usual and may take at least four days to disappear.
• Patients are recommended to eat only soft foods for at least one-week post-surgery.

Factors affecting the implant healing process

Certainly, dental implant recovery is a lengthy process and may be affected by various factors. Below are the major influencers:

• Number of teeth extracted: Implant surgery may involve replacing or extracting one or more teeth, and the healing varies accordingly. The higher the number of implants, the longer the healing may take.
• Extent of bone grafting For some individuals, the jawbone may have completely deteriorated or been injured. In this case, the time taken to perform the dental implant process is extended, and in turn, the recovery process is prolonged. Usually, for implants to completely integrate with the jawbone or the graft, it might take between 8–10 months.
• Dental history Previous dental history or complications may also affect the time taken for the implants to heal. However, the dentist may have already considered this and would have given the respective recovery period.
• Type of impact There are different types of dental implants, like mini implant, endosteal, etc., and based on each of it’s severity, the recovery may be prolonged than expected.
• Oral and physical health From the quality of food intake to regular oral hygiene, everything matters. Moreover, undesired habits or addiction to alcohol or smoking may greatly affect the healing time. Most importantly, sleep is essential.

Notably, the above-listed factors not only influence the healing process but also influence the longevity of the solution. If well-maintained according to the doctor’s tips and suggestions, dental implants can last a lifetime. Otherwise, how long do dental implants last? Check out!

Tips to speed up the healing of dental implants

• Regular brushing and flossing are crucial to maintain oral health and quicken the recovery.
• Maintaining a list of soft foods and adhering to the same can expedite the healing.
• As mentioned earlier, adequate sleep is important.
• Sticking to the dentist’s dos and don'ts can help with faster recovery and healing.
• Quit smoking and alcohol.
• A healthy diet and adequate physical activity after the dental implant surgery can lessen the healing phase.
• Last but not least, visiting the dentist for follow-up consultations is significant to regularly check for healing progress and detect side effects, if any.

Looking for dental implants in and around Arnold, Missouri?

If you’re looking to correct your broken teeth or fill the gap of a missing tooth, it’s high time you explore dental implants. Book an appointment with one of our expert general dentists at Pristine Dental and Orthodontics for the best Dental Implants in Arnold, Missouri, and a quick consultation. Indeed, they recommend the best solution with long-lasting results!