Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth or multiple missing teeth. They can also act as a support for other dental restorations such as bridges and dentures. Dental implants are a great way to restore your mouth and bring it back to a healthy state but since having implants placed is a surgical procedure, you will need a more extensive recovery time than may be necessary for other dental work.
Implants are much more secure and stable than other, more temporary options and are actually easy to maintain and care for. Here, we will review the recovery time for having dental implants placed.
How long does it take to recover from dental implant placement surgery?
You will be able to go back to work the day following implant surgery but it will take up to six months for your implant site to heal and integrate with your jawbone and for your gum tissue to heal. If your job requires physical exertion, you will likely have some restrictions for a month before you can return to normal routines.
Post-surgery medications: Your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic after your surgery to prevent infection. Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications, taking care not to use any of that contain aspirin as aspirin can promote bleeding. If you feel that you are unable to tolerate your pain, your doctor may be able to prescribe a pain medication.
Osseointegration of dental implants: Your dental implant will begin to integrate with your jawbone while you heal. The bone structure around your implant will fuse to the implant, creating a secure and stable root for your new restoration. Once your implant is fully integrated and your gum tissue is healed, your dentist can place your restoration on your implant.
Am I a candidate for full mouth dental implants?
Having implants placed does require surgery so unfortunately, not everyone is that candidate. Sometimes before an implant can be placed, preparatory surgeries have to be performed and given time to heal. These can include a bone or gum graft which can take a few months to heal before an implant can be placed. In some cases, the implant can be placed at the same time as the bone graft. This of course depends on the individual's overall state of health.
Just because you have lost some teeth does not mean you are headed for a life with dentures. Dental implants are a bit more costly but they are more comfortable, more secure, and can easily last a lifetime as opposed to traditional dentures.
Talk with your dentist about your concerns and discuss your options. Your dentist can take some x-rays and perform a thorough exam to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. Together, you can find the best treatment possible for your individual case and health status.
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