Dental implants require a multi-step procedure, including oral surgery, unlike other tooth replacement options. Your experienced dental team will work to ensure the implant placement is as smooth and comfortable as possible. To ensure long-term success, maintaining oral hygiene during recovery is crucial. Continue reading as we answer five of the most frequently asked questions about recovering from dental implant surgery.
#1: Is Recovering from Dental Implant Surgery Painful?
Once the anesthesia from your surgery begins to wear off over the next few hours, you might experience some mild discomfort. Your Yorba Linda dentist may prescribe pain medication, but many patients find that over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs are sufficient to manage any pain. Typically, any soreness or discomfort should lessen within approximately 10 days after the procedure.
#2: Is Bleeding Normal After Dental Implant Surgery?
Following the placement of your dental implants, your dentist will use gauze sponges to control bleeding at the site. You’ll need to keep biting down on these sponges for at least an hour.
It’s normal to experience some bleeding for up to 48-72 hours after the procedure. To minimize bleeding, avoid spitting, vigorous rinsing, strenuous activities, and taking aspirin. Replace the gauze sponges with fresh ones every hour as needed.
#3: What Should I Avoid After Dental Implant Surgery?
To promote healing and to help your dental implants integrate with the jawbone, it’s important to avoid:
- Smoking, chewing tobacco, or other tobacco products throughout the recovery process
- For the first two weeks, refrain from spitting, using straws, or rinsing your mouth
- Consuming carbonated beverages for at least a week
#4: When and What Can I Eat After Dental Implant Surgery?
For the first two days after your surgery, stick to consuming liquids and soft foods, such as:
- Refried beans, mashed potatoes, pureed fruit, and smooth soups and broths
- Ice cream, milkshakes, juices, smoothies, and protein shakes
- Cottage cheese, yogurt, and pudding
From the third day onward, you can begin eating soft, easy-to-chew foods like soft sandwiches, cooked noodles, and eggs that are poached, soft-boiled, or scrambled.
#5: How Long Does It Take to Recover from Dental Implant Surgery?
Recovery time after dental implant surgery varies based on your age, health, lifestyle, and the number of implants. Typically, it takes six to nine months for your mouth to heal before moving on to the next stage of the implant process. Most of this healing occurs gradually, and many patients are able to return to work or school within one to three days of surgery.
Before your dental implant surgery, your dentist will answer all your questions and provide thorough recovery instructions during your consultation. If you’re considering this advanced tooth replacement option, contact your dentist today!
About the Practice
Murphy Dental Home is a dental practice dedicated to providing patients with exceptional care for patients of all ages. With their extensive experience and advanced training, the expert team can quickly restore your smile to its full, healthy state. They also offer dental implants to fill in gaps in your grin. Whether you’re interested in learning more about dental implants or ready to book an appointment, visit their website or call (972) 449-5120 to get started.