What Can Be Expected After Dental Implant Surgery?
A dental implant is a lot like a real tooth. It consists of a metal rod that is inserted into a patient's jawbone and a crown that is attached to the rod. It looks just like a real tooth and it helps to prevent the bone tissue deterioration that is often associated with missing teeth.
A dental implant is also easier to live with compared to other prosthetics for missing teeth. It does not come with any additional maintenance needs and it can last an entire lifetime if the wearer takes good care of their teeth.
Generally speaking, dental implants are a great option for those:
- Missing one or more teeth
- With fully developed jaws
- Who are healthy
- With sufficient amounts of jawbone tissue. Bone grafts can be performed if the patient does not have enough healthy bone tissue
- Without any health conditions that affect healing
- Who would rather not deal with bridges or dentures
- Who do not use tobacco products
During the procedure, the dentist will make an incision in the patient's gums and drill a hole into the person's jaw. The implant is then pushed into the hole until it fits tightly.
Recovering after dental implant surgery
The installation of dental implants often occurs in stages. There is typically a recovery period separating each stage. The different stages are:
- Evaluation and jawbone grafting if needed
- Insertion of the dental implant
- Osseointegration
- Placement of the abutment
- Crowning the abutment
Here are some simple things patients should expect after the insertion of implants:
1. Antibiotics
Patients might be prescribed antibiotics to prevent the surgery site from becoming infected. Patients should take these antibiotics as prescribed, as well as any mouth rinses.
2. Slight bleeding
Patients might notice some blood in their saliva after implant surgery. This normally does not last for longer than 24 hours after the surgery. To control the blood flow, patients should place a piece of gauze in the area and bite down on it.
3. Mild pain
It is completely normal to experience mild pain and discomfort after dental implant surgery. Over-the-counter painkillers are typically enough to get through this period.
4. Soft foods
Patients should be prepared to dine on soft foods after implant installation. It is very important that the patient does not chew on anything that can lead to the implant becoming dislodged.
5. Swelling
Slight swelling should be expected after implant surgery. This can be minimized by applying an icepack to the affected area or using a warm compress.
6. No tobacco products
Smoking increases a person's risk of developing an infection after implant surgery, and it slows down the recovery process. Dentists recommend staying away from tobacco products for at least two weeks after getting implants.
Implants let you forget you ever lost a tooth
With a dental implant, patients can replace missing teeth with a prosthetic that looks and functions like a natural tooth. Missing one of your teeth? Schedule a consultation with our Chicago office to learn more about implants.
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Request an appointment here: https://smilesonmichigan.com or call Smiles On Michigan at (312) 509-9492 for an appointment in our Chicago office.
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