The healing time following a dental implant procedure varies from person to person. Your personal healing time will depend on a number of factors, including your age and the quality and density of your jawbone. On average, however, the healing period is approximately three to four months. You may need to limit your diet to soft foods in the days following your dental surgery. Doing so allows the surgical site to heal more rapidly, potentially reducing the time you must wait before receiving your prosthetic teeth.
Most people will experience some degree of swelling and discomfort in the days immediately following dental implant placement. This is a normal part of the healing process that will eventually subside. However, your dentist may prescribe medication to help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection.
Oral hygiene will still be an important part of your post-op care. Even if you have no natural teeth, it is important to keep your implants and gums as clean as possible to help prevent periodontal disease and infection. Continue to care for your gums and implants even after receiving your new prosthetic teeth. This will require daily brushing and flossing, as well as periodic dental exams.
Did you know…
The longevity of your dental implants depends on your ability to care for your own oral health. While it is true that implants and prosthetic teeth are not capable of decay, they can be indirectly affected by poor oral hygiene. Periodontitis, for example, can cause gum recession and bone loss, which may cause an implant to loosen or fall out. However, a dental implant that is properly cared for can last a lifetime.
When to Contact Our Office
Most people experience a complication-free recovery period. However, we encourage you to contact our office if you have questions or feel that your surgical site is not healing properly. Fever or pain that worsens over time may be signs of infection and require our attention.
