Step-by-Step Recovery after Dental Implant Surgery

Do you have a lost or missing tooth? We have restorative dentistry treatment options at our Forney, TX practice. For the right candidates, dental implants are considered the best solution for replacing missing tooth roots.

To learn more about recovery expectations for this safe, effective, and long-lasting restorative treatment, read on for tips about dental implant surgery recovery and care.

Osseointegration

A biological phenomenon called osseointegration helps to stabilize the dental implant after placement. Your jawbone will accept the titanium implant and grow around it to secure its position in the jaw.

Osseointegration occurs in the three- to six-month period after the implant surgery, and once complete, will keep the implant permanently secure. Throughout your recovery, do not use tobacco products as this can slow or prevent osseointegration.

In the First Hour

After implant surgery, use care around the surgical site; it is completely normal for the gum tissue to be tender or swollen for the first few days of recovery.

When you leave our office, you will have a gauze pad on the surgical site. This will help stop the flow of blood and encourage the formation of a blood clot. Replace gauze pads every half hour for the first couple hours post-surgery until bleeding lessens considerably or stops.

Know that it is normal for small amounts of blood to be present for up to two days post-surgery. However, if you experience severe bleeding that you cannot stop by applying pressure, call our practice right away.

In the First Day

Rest for the first 24 hours. Do not attempt any heavy lifting, bending over, or other strenuous physical activity.

Enjoy a soft diet, and drink plenty of liquids. However, be careful to avoid very hot or very cold foods. Opt for warm soups, applesauce, mashed veggies, or protein shakes.

While you should brush your teeth, use extra caution around the surgical site, and take care not to allow bristles to come into direct contact with the healing area.

In addition, do not vigorously rinse with mouthwash. Instead, gently swill the mouthwash and allow it to soak the surgical site.

In the First Two to Four Days

Continue to rinse the mouth using a simple saline solution or other medicated solution that may have been provided by your dentist. This prevents infection and keeps the surgical site clean.

If you are dealing with pain or tenderness in the face and jaw, take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed, or any prescription pain medication given to you by your doctor. The pain is normal, and should dissipate with time. Contact our office right away if discomfort persists.

Contact Our Dental Implant Experts Today

Dental implants restore your oral health and strengthen your jaw after tooth loss. While slight discomfort is normal during the procedure and early days of recovery, many patients discover the benefits of this restorative procedure far outweigh the temporary inconveniences.

To schedule a consultation with us, contact our practice at (972)564-7575 or (972) 772-4000. We can help you take your first step toward a more beautiful, functional smile.

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