Getting a dental implant is a big step towards a better smile. After the implant surgery, it’s normal to have some questions about healing. Knowing what to expect can make the recovery period easier. Here’s a step-by-step look at what usually happens as you heal from dental implant surgery.
Right After Surgery (Day 1)
Right after your implant is placed, your mouth will likely feel numb. This is from the anesthesia. As the numbness wears off, you might feel some pain or discomfort. This is normal. Your SW Calgary dentist will probably give you pain medicine to help. Take it as directed.
You might also have some swelling in your gums and face. Putting an ice pack on the outside of your face near the surgery area can help reduce swelling. Do this for about 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
You might see a little bit of bleeding from the surgery site. This is also normal. Your dentist might tell you to bite gently on a piece of gauze to help stop the bleeding. Change the gauze as it gets soaked. Avoid rinsing your mouth too much on the first day. This can disturb the blood clot that’s forming, which helps with healing.
Eat soft foods on the first day. Things like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes are good choices. Avoid hot foods and drinks. Also, try not to chew directly on the side where the implant was placed.
The First Few Days (Days 2-7)
Over the next few days, the swelling might get a little worse before it starts to get better. Keep using ice packs to help. The pain should also start to decrease. Continue taking your pain medicine if you need it.
It’s important to keep your mouth clean to prevent infection. Your dentist might tell you to rinse gently with warm salt water a few times a day. Be very careful when you brush your teeth. Avoid brushing directly on the surgery site. You can gently brush the other parts of your mouth.
Continue to eat soft foods. Slowly, as you feel more comfortable, you can start to add slightly more solid foods. Still, avoid anything hard, crunchy, or chewy that could put pressure on the implant area.
Try not to do anything too strenuous for the first few days. Rest and let your body heal. Avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise.
The Next Few Weeks (Weeks 2-6)
After the first week, most of the initial discomfort and swelling should be gone. The gum area might still look a little different, and it will continue to heal. You should be able to eat a wider variety of foods now, but still be careful around the implant site.
Continue to keep your mouth clean with gentle brushing and rinsing. If your dentist told you to use a special mouthwash, keep using it as directed.
During this time, the bone around the implant is starting to grow and fuse with it. This process is called osseointegration. It’s very important for the long-term success of your implant. You won’t feel this happening, but it’s a crucial part of the healing.
You will likely have a follow-up appointment with your dentist during this time. They will check how your gums are healing and make sure everything looks good.
The Next Few Months (Months 2-6 and Beyond)
Osseointegration can take several months to complete. During this time, you might not have any noticeable symptoms. Your gums should be fully healed. You should be able to eat normally again.
Once your dentist is sure that the implant is fully fused with your bone, the next step is getting the abutment placed (if it wasn’t done during the initial surgery) and then the crown (the artificial tooth). Getting the crown is usually the final step in the implant process.
After you get your crown, you will care for your implant just like you care for your natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly. See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. With good care, your dental implants can last for many years.
Things to Watch Out For
While some discomfort after implant surgery is normal, there are some things that are not. Call your dentist right away if you experience any of the following:
- Heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop
- Severe pain that gets worse instead of better
- Signs of infection, like increased swelling, redness, warmth, or pus around the implant site
- Fever
- Numbness that lasts longer than expected
These could be signs of a problem that needs attention.
Healing Takes Time
Remember that everyone heals at their own pace. Be patient with the process. Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, don’t hesitate to call 1 their office. They are there to help you have a smooth and successful recovery and enjoy your new smile for years to come. Taking care of yourself after surgery is a big part of making sure your implant is successful.
