Full Mouth Dental Implants Recovery Time
Dental Implants
Modern dentistry has introduced dental implants, which are the best treatment available for the replacement of missing teeth. The implant procedure involves the surgical placement of the implant and a prosthetic tooth. Patients who are considering dental implants often want to know what to expect in terms of recovery time associated with the implant procedure. Below is a summary of the dental implant recovery and healing process.
Recovery Highlights
- Patients often return to work the next day following the implant procedure. There is minimal downtime associated with dental implants, and complications are rare.
- Over-the-counter pain medications are typically used to manage any pain. Any discomfort usually subsides within a few days or less.
- The full recovery and healing will take about four to six months. Patients must wait for their jawbone to heal before the crown can be placed.
Following the surgical placement of the dental implant, the mouth begins to heal. The recovery timeline can vary for each patient but is typically complete within six months or less. Patients should discuss the expected recovery timeline with their provider. The provider is able to provide a more accurate timeline based on the patient’s unique circumstances.
Healing Process
Because the implant is surgically placed into the jawbone, the implant actually replaces the root of the missing tooth. This also offers the restoration an incredibly secure foundation. Osseointegration is the name of the process that occurs during recovery. A temporary crown is often used while patients wait for their mouth to heal. During this process, the patient’s bone fuses to the implant.
Osseointegration
There is no way to expedite or rush this process as it occurs naturally in the body. Osseointegration takes about four months on average. Following the recovery, the dental professional can attach the abutment and crown. The crown gives the restoration its natural appearance and function of the natural tooth.
Pain
The dental implant does involve a surgical component, but it is relatively minor. It is an outpatient procedure and involves minimal downtime. Patients will typically be able to manage any discomfort with an over-the-counter pain medication. The dental professional will use sutures, which are usually removed within two weeks or less. Following the removal of sutures or once they dissolve, the patient can resume regular activities without limitations.
Additional Procedures
In some cases, patients may require additional procedures. This may include a tooth extraction or a bone graft. Any additional procedures will extend the timeline for the procedure and recovery. Bone grafting is required when patients do not have adequate bone structure required to support the implant. Following the removal of a tooth, the bone must heal completely prior to the placement of the implant. Some practices are able to place the implant the same day.
Contact the office today if you are missing teeth and want to discuss how you may benefit from dental implants. Implants are an exceptional tooth-replacement option that effectively restores the tooth’s function and appearance. Our team looks forward to working with you and is happy to answer any questions you have regarding the implant procedure and recovery timeline.
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