Are you seeking a long-lasting solution for tooth loss that’s more stable than dentures or dental bridges? If so, you might be a good candidate for dental implants. These are the only replacement teeth that are embedded directly into your jawbone, giving them additional strength and resilience over the alternatives.
However, you must care for yourself carefully during recovery for the procedure to be successful. Continue reading to learn about 3 frequently asked questions about what to expect when healing after dental implant surgery!
Question #1: Can I Drive Myself Home?
Many patients wonder how impactful the procedure will be and whether they can safely drive themselves home when it’s completed. With that said, it’s important to remember that this is a surgical procedure, and you’ll likely be numbed and/or medicated for it, if your provider offers sedation.
It can take some time for certain drugs to clear your system, so patients are often asked to avoid operating heavy machinery for the remainder of the day. Furthermore, some forms of anesthesia can cause blurry vision, making it dangerous to be on the road. Your dentist or surgeon will let you know whether they think you will need someone to help get you home after your procedure.
Question #2: Does Recovery Hurt?
Placing these restorations involves a surgical procedure, which, like any other, has the potential to cause pain. However, your dentist will likely keep you medicated during the procedure so you won’t have to worry about aches until after the medications wear off.
Then, it’s normal to experience some swelling and soreness for a week or so. This tends to peak around the third day before it dissipates, and might be safely reduced with Tylenol or ibuprofen. If you experience severe discomfort that doesn’t subside or worsens, you should contact your provider to ensure you are healing correctly.
Question #3: How Long Until My Mouth Heals?
Are you wondering how long you can expect recovery to take? Although the immediate aches and inflammation will likely fade after several days, it can take anywhere from three to six months for your mouth to fully mend.
This is because it takes time to generate enough new bone growth in your jaw to fuse with the biocompatible material of your implant, making it a permanent part of your mouth. Once your gums have mended sufficiently, your dentist can make impressions of your mouth, which are used to build your new, fully customized dental crown (or other appropriate restoration).
If you still have questions about dental implant recovery, your dentist can provide information that takes your unique circumstances into account!
About the Practice
Patients at St. Albans Dental benefit from a team of dentists committed to helping families improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. Dr. Aten, Dr. Cone, and Dr. Davico collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services at one convenient location, including placing and restoring dental implants. Their expertise is combined with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate, comfortable results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (802) 524-4844.