The Recovery Time for Dental Implants is Likely Shorter Than You Think
If you are considering dental implants then you likely have many questions. The best way to get answers is to make an appointment with California Dental Group for a dental cleaning and exam. In the meantime, you can read on to find out about recovery time and other common concerns.
An overview of the dental implant procedure
This surgery begins with having your tooth pulled out. If your tooth is already missing then we may be able to skip this step, though sometimes roots remain and they must be removed. Once the tooth and roots are out of the way, a titanium base is inserted into the jawbone. We give this time to heal so that the base is securely settled into your mouth. We than place an overdenture or crown on top. This gives you the feeling of having a natural tooth.
Your dentist will talk to you about sedation options
Whether the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, local anesthesia, or sedation will depend on your individual dental case and your preferences. We will discuss your options with you before getting started.
Sometimes bone grafting is necessary
If your jaw is no longer strong enough to support the base of the dental implant, then you still have options. One of them is bone grafting. This involves taking bone from another part of your body and putting it in your mouth. Most people do not need this but it is helpful to know that even if your jaw issues are advanced, there are still options.
Recovery from a dental implant
After the implant is in, your body is going to need to create new bone to support said implant. This is known as osseointegration and it is similar to a plant that needs to grow new roots to support itself. As time goes on, the implant will become a permanent part of your mouth.
Everyone is different, but this process usually takes a few months. During that time, you will have a temporary crown in place. You will need to keep the area dry and clean for a few days after the implant procedure and you may experience light bleeding and swelling. You are able to brush your teeth right away but be sure to be gentle. Avoid physical exertion, such as exercising, that can increase swelling and bleeding.
We will schedule a few follow up visits to ensure you are in good shape. They will help us know when we can put in the permanent crown. This will vary based on how you heal but three to six months is a good range to assume. If you have questions about this or other dental procedures, please do not hesitate to reach out to California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 for a free legal consultation.
