Initial healing after dental surgery usually takes around ten days, but it can take up to six months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone.
Tooth loss can do more than affect your appearance. In fact, missing teeth can lead to a range of problems, including bite-related issues, difficulty eating and speaking, and even structural changes to the face and jaw. If you are missing one or more teeth, it is highly advisable that you see your dentist as soon as possible — fortunately, there are a number of ways in which tooth loss can be effectively resolved.
One of the most popular and reliable solutions is dental implant surgery. The treatment involves the surgical placement of an artificial tooth root directly into the jawbone. Over the course of a few months this artificial root — the implant — actually fuses with the jawbone to achieve a stable and permanent replacement. A crown is then placed for a natural-looking and fully functional new tooth. If you are considering dental implant surgery, read on to find out what you can expect from the healing period, and what you can do to ensure a smooth recovery…
What can you expect after surgery?
After your dental implant has been placed, you can expect to feel some discomfort once the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off. You are also likely to notice some swelling at and around the site of surgery. These side effects will gradually resolve with time, and should only last for a few days.
During this time, it is best to stick to soft or liquid foods that don’t require much chewing. Some good options include blended soups, smoothies, natural yoghurt, mashed fruits and vegetables and oatmeal. As your mouth feels more comfortable, you will be able to incorporate more foods into your diet, such as scrambled eggs, soft pasta and finely chopped stewed chicken. You should avoid foods and drinks that are particularly hot as these can cause irritation at the site of surgery. Similarly, acidic and spicy foods are best avoided while you heal.
How long does osseointegration take?
It can take up to six months for your dental implant to fuse with the jawbone. During this process, known as osseointegration, your jaw bone will gradually strengthen and grow around the dental implant. Because the bone fuses with the implant, you can expect your implant to feel secure and stable. In fact, once the osseointegration process is complete, your dental implant will function just like the root of a natural tooth.
When the bone and implant have grown together, your dentist will attach what is known as an abutment to the implant. A replacement tooth is then attached. Once the treatment is complete, you can expect your artificial tooth to look and feel just like a natural tooth. You will enjoy fully restored oral function, as well as an aesthetically pleasing smile.
How can we help?
At Extreme Dentistry, we offer a range of restorative dentistry services, including dental implants. If you are missing one or more teeth, we encourage you to come in and see us so that we can confirm whether or not you are a suitable candidate for dental implant surgery. We will explain the treatment in detail to you, and let you know what to expect from the recovery process.
If you would like to find out more about the dental implant procedure and what it involves at Extreme Dentistry, please have a look here.
We also a range of other services, including cosmetic, general and emergency dentistry. To see our full offering, please have a look here.
If you would like to arrange an appointment, please give us a call on 08 8948 1225 or get in touch with us here. Our team looks forward to welcoming you to our practice in Darwin and helping to restore both the form and function of your smile.
