What to Expect After Dental Implants and How to Get the Most from Them

Dental implants are a completely unique type of dental prosthetic.  They offer the closest feel to a real tooth.  My patients and I love what they can do to restore a smile. When someone comes to me in need of a tooth replacement and we determine that a dental implant is the best option, I make sure they understand what to expect during the implant placement, as well as what will be needed for aftercare and maintenance.

While dental implants are indeed a surgical procedure, the process is very straightforward and involves only minor daily adjustment during the healing period.  Still, I want my patients to be fully aware of what’s involved while healing; to insure that their implants remain strong, secure, beautiful and effective.

Healing Time: After the implant has been placed into your jawbone, your body begins a natural process called osseointegration.  This means your bone naturally conforms around your implant.  For some patients this process is completed in as little as two months.  In others, it can take up to six months.  If you have an abutment placed at the same time as your implant cylinder, I will fit you with a temporary crown or prosthetic to go over the implant to ensure that you can smile comfortably during this period.

Immediately After the First Procedure:  While you won’t need any extended downtime, it’s advisable that you leave yourself one or two days to rest and recuperate.  In the first few days, you may notice some swelling and light bruising in your gums and face, as well as some minor bleeding.  Post-op soreness and pain at the site of your implant are all normal.  An over-the-counter anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen is usually enough to get through the initial healing.  As long as you find your symptoms are exponentially improving, slight discomfort is totally normal.  You should expect to stick with soft foods for the first week following the implant placement. 

Continue Cautious and Comprehensive Care: In the midst of this process, make sure you’re taking extra special care of your oral health!  Take care to defend your teeth and gums against infection, as your mouth may be extra sensitive during this time.  Brushing and flossing of your surrounding teeth should be completed diligently.

Follow Ups and Additional Procedures:  You should expect to make a few follow up visits so we can examine how you’re healing and assess any potential issues.  Once we’ve determined that your jaw bone has totally conformed to your implants, it will be time for me to place your replacement tooth that will restore your smile.  When your gums have totally healed, your implant process is now complete!

Life with Implants: So what should you expect in the remaining months and years following your dental implant procedure?

Provided you brush, floss, avoid smoking, tobacco and heavy alcohol use, and come in for regular checkups, you can expect your implant to look, feel and last as long as a real tooth.   Your diet will not be restricted.  You will not need to modify the way you brush and floss your teeth (as long as you’re doing so correctly).

While the dental implant placement and healing process is an investment, it’s an investment that payoff with a smile that’s truly your own.

If you’re seriously considering dental implants as a tooth replacement method, I expect that you have many more questions.  I look forward to answering them for you:  http://www.washingtonstreetdentistry.com/contact_information/

Keep the calls and emails coming!

-Dr. Matthew Church, D.D.S

Washington Street Dental