Table of Contents:
- Recovery After Dental Implant Surgery
- How Long Does It Take To Heal?
- What to Do After Dental Implant?
- What Can You Not Do After Dental Implants?
- Can You Smoke After Dental Implants?
Recovery After Dental Implant Surgery
The process of getting a dental implant can be lengthy, complex, and sometimes risky. However, it’s ultimately worth the effort. Patients need to know about the dental implant recovery process before making a decision, as it can vary depending on individual needs and circumstances.
On average, the entire dental implant procedure can take to several months. Patients must be prepared for any unexpected developments during the treatment or healing periods. Learn more about what to expect after the dental implant procedure and how long it will take to get back on your feet by reading on!
How Long Does It Take To Heal?
The recovery time for a dental implant procedure is typically between four to six months. The good news is patients can resume their daily activities without complications. However, the healing process can vary depending on any pre-existing dental conditions or supplementary procedures that may be required before the surgery.
The healing time can take quite a while because some procedures will be done separately. And between the procedures, patients also need time to heal. That’s why dental implant needs a long time to be fully healed.
For example; between each step, such as implant placement, attaching the abutment, and fitting the permanent crown, that healing time alone can take several weeks to months. The procedure also may involve removing a damaged tooth or placing a bone graft on the jawbone. Therefore, it’s important to be prepared to invest both time and money into this reconstructive treatment.
How to Heal Faster After Dental Implants
There are many ways to support your body as it heals after dental implant surgery. If you’re looking to speed up the recovery process, there are several dos and don’ts you can take to ensure that your body heals as quickly and efficiently as possible.
From eating the right foods and getting enough rest to following post-operative care instructions and avoiding certain activities. Here are some ways you can and you can not do to heal faster after dental implant surgery.
What to Do After Dental Implant?
The recovery period following dental implant surgery can vary from person to person. It depends on the type of procedure and the health conditions of the individual. However, you can take common steps to facilitate proper healing from this surgery
- Brush and Floss Your Artificial Teeth Regularly
At least twice a day or after every meal, for optimal oral health. - Use a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for cleaning implant teeth to gently scrub the area where the gums and implants meet.
- Only Eat Softer or Liquid Foods
In the first few days after surgery, stick to softer, liquid foods, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, milkshakes, pudding, and lukewarm soup. Avoid hard foods and chew on the opposite side of the surgical sites. Cutting food into smaller pieces can also aid in preserving the integrity of the implant. - Get Plenty of Rest to Speed up the Recovery Time of Your Tooth Implant
Take it easy after the surgery, and take the day off work to rest and recover. Avoid mentally demanding activities if you were given a sedative during the procedure. Avoid lifting or bending and elevate your head with pillows when sleeping, to prevent dislodging blood clots and severe bleeding. - Follow Post-operative Cleaning Instructions Provided by Your Dentist
Your new teeth may be sensitive for a while, and you may be advised to avoid brushing or using mouthwash. Rinsing with a saltwater mixture is recommended until your mouth is ready for conventional oral hygiene. - Protect the blood clot by avoiding carbonated beverages, alcohol, smoking, and spitting for a few days after the surgery.
- Apply Ice to the Affected Area to Reduce Swelling and Bruises
Switch by 20-30 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours. If swelling worsens or you notice pus or a fever, seek medical attention immediately. - Take Prescribed Pain Medication as Needed
Over-the-counter pain medication can help with mild discomfort, but stronger medication may be prescribed for more severe symptoms. - Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor your progress and condition.
What Can You NOT Do After Dental Implants?
- Avoid Using Straws or Spitting for the First Two Weeks After Surgery
It can put pressure on the implant site and have negative effects on the healing process. - Refrain From Eating Hard, Crunchy, Sugary, or Sticky Foods Shortly After Surgery
Stick to soft foods that won’t scrape or irritate the surgical area. Avoid anything too cold, too hot, chewy, tough, crunchy, or spicy. Eating sugar-laden foods can lead to plaque buildup, which can damage your teeth and gums and negatively impact your dental health. - Avoid strenuous activities for a while after surgery as it can lead to excessive bleeding and increased swelling.
- Do not use toothpaste labelled “whitening” or “brightening” or those containing baking soda or activated charcoal. These types of toothpaste can be too abrasive for your replacement teeth.
- Quit Smoking or Chewing Tobacco as It Can Discolour Your Implant and Affect the Healing Process
Nicotine present in cigarette smoke can negatively impact the health of your tooth structures and the healing process.
Can You Smoke After Dental Implants?
No, you can’t! Don’t smoke for at least 2 weeks after the final procedure has been completed. Smoking can increase the risk of infection, which may lead to implant failure.
Conclusion
It’s important to have a clear understanding of how the body reacts and heals after dental implant surgery, as recovery time can vary based on various factors such as age, gender, and overall health condition.
If you’re seeking the best care and treatment plan for your dental implant in Bali, choose Bali Dental Voyage. Our team can help determine the most suitable procedure for restoring your oral health and ensuring comfort throughout the healing process – during a holiday on the Island of Gods.
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