If you’ve chosen to replace your missing teeth with dental implants, you’re making a wise investment. The first step to rebuilding your smile involves a surgical procedure to place titanium posts in your jawbone. It’s normal to have a few concerns about the recovery, but there isn’t anything to fear. Here are the answers to 5 common questions patients have after dental implant surgery in Scripps Ranch.
1. Is getting dental implants painful?
During your placement surgery, your gum tissue is opened to gain access to your jawbone. After creating a small hole, the implant post is inserted into it, and your tissue is sutured closed. You won’t feel anything because your dentist will use sedation or anesthesia. Unfortunately, as the effects of the sedative dissipate, your mouth is going to be a little sore; however, many people say it isn’t any worse than after a tooth extraction. You can manage your discomfort using over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories. It’s also best to sleep with your head elevated to prevent your blood from pooling, which can make your mouth throb.
2. How long will my recovery take?
Everyone heals at a different rate, but most people can resume their normal activities after about 3 days. Within a couple of weeks, your gum tissue will be healed, but your jawbone will still be recovering below the surface. It can take several weeks for your jaw to heal because your bone will need to fuse to the post through a process called osseointegration.
3. How long will the bleeding last?
You may notice a little bleeding from the surgical site for up to 72 hours following the procedure. You can reduce prolonged bleeding by avoiding anything that might aggravate the healing tissue, like smoking, spitting, or rinsing your mouth vigorously. If your implants were placed in the upper jaw or you needed a sinus graft, you may also experience bleeding from the nose, but don’t blow it. Instead, apply pressure to allow a clot to form.
4. What can I eat?
After getting dental implants in Scripps Ranch, you’ll want to stick to softer foods for at least the first 24 hours. Your dentist will also recommend avoiding anything too hot or cold. You’ll want to skip drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours. As your mouth heals, you can reintroduce harder foods.
5. Can I brush my teeth?
Your oral hygiene is more important than ever. Although your mouth might be sore, you can resume brushing your teeth after 24 hours. Carefully rinse your mouth using salt water to cleanse the surgical site and reduce pain.
If you have any questions about your recovery, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for more information.
About Dr. Greg Friedman
Dr. Friedman earned his dental degree from Washington University’s School of Dental Medicine before continuing his training in advanced procedures, like functional orthodontics and dental implants. If you’re ready to invest in a beautiful, complete smile, contact our office today to see if dental implants are right for you.
