Dental implant surgery includes replacements of the tooth root with metal posts. It helps in replacing damaged or missing teeth.

The process involves a thorough examination of the teeth and taking impression of the teeth of jaw and teeth for crown preparation. Sometimes, a tooth is also extracted if it is found to be severely damaged. Extraction may be performed if the gum or jaw bone is suffering from an infection. There is no need for removal if the teeth are healthy and in an appropriate condition for fixing implants. Once the oral health is ensured, the procedure can progress further.

A bone grafting is also performed if any tooth is extracted or if the patient has lost a tooth or two recently. Bone grafting ensures that the implants have a strong foundation to adhere to. Then the implant is fixed either into the bone or gum.

Dental implants are the best way to replace damaged and injured teeth and the recovery can be sped up if the patient co-operates. Recovery from dental implants requires proper care and ample amount of time. Many patients become nervous as about the recovery as the implants are completely fused with the bone.

Learning more about recovery from dental implants helps will help the patient being comfortable. Here are some facts to consider about recovery from a dental implant procedure.

 

1. Recovery duration

The recovery duration for each patient is different as it completely depends on the condition of mouth and oral health. The number of teeth extracted and implanted can also affect the healing time. It is also observed that lifestyle choices can also add to the recovery of the patient. Over the counter pain medications can dramatically speed up the recovery process. On an average, it takes a patient four to six months to completely recover from dental implant procedure.

The above factors heavily contribute to the recovery of the patient. The recovery time for this procedure is quick as it is just a minor surgical procedure. Also, if the patient has sutures, they will be removed within 14-15 days after the surgery.

 

2. Does recovery hurt?

Recovery for some patients may be somewhat painful as there are various types of procedures performed for efficient results. If a simple procedure is performed, the patient should experience minimal pain and discomfort. If the procedure is moderately severe, then the patient may experience swelling and some degree of pain. Patients who have multiple implants experience the most pain and often have a difficult time completely recovering from the procedure.

 

3. Proper care required

The patient can definitely contribute to the recovery process by properly taking care of the teeth. The patient should observe the teeth for any signs of prolonged discomfort and visit the dentist once or twice to ensure safe and speedy recovery. Patients are also strongly advised to maintain oral health and hygiene to avoid getting infections.

 

4. What must you avoid to aid recovery?

Patients are suggested to avoid hard and sticky foods and beverages as they can hinder recovery by sticking to the surface of implants. Abrasive and harsh oral healthcare products are also supposed to be avoided as they can seriously damage the sensitive gums caused due to implant surgery. These products can also cause discomfort and an uncomfortable feeling in the mouth, so patients are advised to stick with oral healthcare products designed for sensitive teeth for a few days or until the teeth completely recover.

Smoking and alcohol consumption should also be strictly avoided. Constant moving, rinsing mouth frequently, striking the tongue to the implants, etc. habits should be avoided to prevent disturbance in healing process.

 

5. Tips for speedy recovery

Almost all patients experience swelling and pain in the first 24 hours following the procedure. Ice packs are recommended to manage the pain and discomfort. The patient should also bite on the sponges placed along with the implants to control bleeding. Also, only soft and cool foods like rice, potatoes, etc. should be consumed.

Flossing daily, using a soft nylon toothbrush, keeping the head elevated, etc. are a few methods recommended to speed up recovery process.

 

6. Pain relievers

All patients are prescribed to take pain medications to manage the after effects of the procedure. Medications like ibuprofen are often recommended. It also helps in managing symptoms of inflammation. Tylenol is also recommended. Sometimes stronger drugs like Vicodin and Lortab are also recommended. These drugs are also prescribed to be taken in combination if the pain is difficult to manage. However, the patient should only tolerate pain up to a certain limit and time. If it lasts longer than a few days and is extremely sharp, contact your dentist immediately.

 

7. Dizziness

Since the procedure includes use of anaesthesia and other local sedation techniques, it is possible for the patient to feel dizzy. It usually happens when the patient stands up abruptly or performs any kind of sudden movement. This can last up to 24 hours after administration. Patients are advised to stay well hydrated and take proper rest. After a few days or as soon as the anaesthetic wears off, the patients can resume their daily activities without restrictions of any kind.

 

8. Nausea

It is common for patients to experience vomiting and nauseous feeling after sedation on taking medications.

There are various ways to prevent this nauseous sensation. Sufficient intake of fluids, taking medication only after eating something, consuming carbonated liquids, etc. are some methods.

The stronger pain medications are more likely to cause nausea so do not take them on an empty stomach.

 

9. Dental implant failure

There is always a chance of a dental procedure going wrong. It is also possible that the body completely rejects the implant. The patient should check for the following symptoms of dental implant failure. Swollen gums that prolong even after a few days, loose and shifting implant causing movement, tightness in gums. All these symptoms indicate that the implant procedure has failed and the patient need to visit the dentist again for correcting the situation.