What is the Recovery Process for Dental Implants?

Dental implants can provide you with the perfect smile you have been dreaming about. Unlike dentures, you can eat just about anything with dental implants. The implants effectively support your facial structure and prevent bone loss or deterioration, which commonly occur with dentures. However, you might worry about the recovery process involved in having dental implants placed in your jawbone. Although the surgical process is detailed, recovery time is different for everyone but can include pain, mild swelling, minor bleeding, and bruising.

Dr. Sangiv I. Patel at Sangiv I. Patel, D.D.S., PA will meet with you in Melbourne, FL to discuss the dental implant process so you know what you expect and there are no surprises. At Sangiv I. Patel, D.D.S., PA?, you can choose from two dental implant choices: titanium or metal-free zirconia. Have you lost your permanent teeth? If so, you can enjoy being able to eat just about anything with dental implants. The implants act like natural teeth. Implants also prevent bone deterioration and help maintain your facial structure.

All about dental implants

During dental implant surgery, Dr. Patel will place either a titanium or metal-free zirconia post directly into your jawbone in the place where the tooth was extracted. Implants can replace one or several teeth. They are used to connect a crown or bridge and to hold permanent dentures in place.

Once your dental implants fully fuse with your jawbone, you will take care of them just like your natural teeth with brushing and flossing. Dr. Patel will examine your jawbone and gum health during your initial consultation to determine if you might need to undergo a bone graft before implant surgery to help strengthen the area and ensure that your implant takes and lasts.

Pregnant women, tobacco users, and individuals who suffer from periodontal disease might not be good candidates for dental implants. Dr. Patel will discuss your options with you after a full examination and x-rays.

If you decide that you want to go forward with dental implant surgery, then Dr. Patel will numb your gum using local anesthesia. He will then make a small surgical incision in the gum to effectively place the post directly into the jawbone. The incision is stitched closed around the dental implant. A small portion of the implant will protrude above the gumline. As your body’s bone integrates with the implant over the course of a few months, you’ll be able to have a dental implant placed on the post. In some situations, Dr. Patel will place a temporary crown or cover over the implant to maintain your smile’s appearance and function as a tooth when you chew.

Recovery after dental implants

Following implant surgery, you might experience mild swelling of the face and gums. Some people have bruising and minor bleeding following the placement of the implants. Dr. Patel will usually provide patients with a prescription for antibiotics and pain medication. Once your implant has healed, Dr. Patel will complete the restoration by attaching your t crown, denture, or bridge to the implant post.

During the recovery process after dental implants, you’ll want to maintain your oral health through regular brushing and flossing.

Schedule a consultation today to discuss dental implants in Melbourne, FL

We invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sangiv I. Patel at Sangiv I. Patel, D.D.S., PA in Melbourne, FL to discuss if dental implants are right for you. Dr. Patel will go over the recovery process and what you can expect from the implants. Contact us today to learn more.