Dental implants are a permanent solution for tooth loss, providing both functional and cosmetic advantages. If you have just gotten this done or are thinking about getting it done, it is important to know about the healing process. Having an idea of what to anticipate can enable you to provide proper care for your dental Implants in Downtown Calgary and achieve proper healing.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Immediately after the dental implant procedure, your mouth will need to heal. The procedure is multi-phased, and each step is crucial so that the implant can bond well with your jawbone.
1. Early Recovery (First Few Days)
Pain, swelling, and small bleeding are possible during the initial 24 to 48 hours post-surgery. Your dentist will give you aftercare directions to reduce pain and avoid issues. Some of the key things to do are:
- An ice pack should be applied to reduce swelling.
- Pain medication that is prescribed or over-the-counter should be taken as directed.
- Stay away from hard, hot, and spicy foods.
- Foods that are best during this time include yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
- The patient should rest for at least 48 hours and avoid any heavy exertion.
2. Osseointegration (3-6 Months)
The most critical phase in the healing process is osseointegration. Here, the titanium implant is absorbed into the jawbone to create a solid foundation for the artificial tooth. The success of your dental implant is dependent on how well this occurs. For enhanced osseointegration:
- Take good oral care by gently brushing and flossing at the area around the implant.
- Do not smoke because it can impede healing and lead to the failure of implants.
- Regularly follow up on your progress with your dentist.
3. Soft Tissue Healing (4-8 Weeks)
While the implant integrates into the bone, the tissue in the gum around the implant must also heal. You may have dissolvable sutures or ones that require your dentist to remove them. For the meantime, keep following good oral hygiene practices gently and refrain from loading the area.
4. Final Abutment Placement and Restoration
After the implant has fused completely with the jawbone, your dentist will fit an abutment—a small connector that attaches the implant to the dental crown. This procedure might involve minor surgery, but it typically takes a short healing time of a few weeks.
Following the abutment placement, a crown of your own design is placed on top to complete the process. Your new tooth will now function and look exactly like a natural tooth at this point.
How to Ensure a Smooth Healing Process
Proper aftercare is essential for the success of your dental implant. Here are some essential tips:
- Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions: Always adhere to the post-surgery instructions provided by your dentist to prevent complications.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush gently around the implant and use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended.
- Mix a Balanced Diet: Foods packed with vitamins and minerals can facilitate healing at a faster rate.
- Stay away from Alcohol and Smoking: Both can retard healing as well as make infection risk complicated.
- Attend Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up visits ensure that your implant is healing well and allow your dentist to address any complications.
Signs of Complications
Although the majority of patients recover without complications, some can have complications. Be aware of the following symptoms and see your dentist if you develop them:
- Unrelenting pain or swelling more than a few weeks after treatment
- Excessive bleeding
- Implant movement or loosening
- Infection symptoms, including pus or fever
If you do develop any of these symptoms, early dental attention is important to avoid further problems.
Why Choose Terra Dental Care for Your Dental Implants?
If you’re in need of high-quality dental implants, our professional team at Terra Dental Care is here to assist you. Our talented dentist in Downtown Calgary offers customized care to provide a smooth treatment process. contact us today to book a consultation and begin the process of restoring your smile!
