How long is the healing phase after getting dental implants
The usual process for this kind of Restorative Dentistry Treatment involves multiple steps. It needs more than one healing stage; thus the time to heal will depend on the number of teeth to replace, the patient’s health, and many other factors. Below is a list of the steps that could occur starting from procedure until recovery. Once these steps are complete, you’ll have a new set of healthy, permanent smile.
- If it needs bone grafting, the patient would have to wait for four to six months before proceeding to the next step. Grafting is needed only if the patient does not have enough healthy bone to support the implant.
- If grafting is not needed, but extracting the teeth is, there is also a grace period required for the gums to heal completely. Nowadays, it is possible to place the implant immediately after extraction therefore patients won’t have to wait long. Before the gum tissue is stitched, the cap is attached to the dental implant. The process can take weeks to heal, depending on the patient’s health.
- Another surgery will be performed after four to six months has passed. By then the tooth implant will have already fused with the implant metal. The cap will be left exposed and the gum around it will be sutured. The gum will heal around the cap and it adapts to the shape of the cap.
- Once the gum has healed completely and the osseointegration process is complete, they can now remove the cap and attach an abutment where the denture or artificial tooth is placed.
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Osseo-integration – The reason dental implants are stronger and more durable than any other treatment methods is because of osseo-integration. Osseo-integraiton is a process where the bone cells grow into the implant when it has been inserted into the bone. This will create a naturally strong bond as the implant gets fused and becomes the part of the bone. This process won’t occur in an instant. The patient will have to wait for two to six months for the osseointegration process to complete.
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How to care for a tooth implant after surgery
- If there is discomfort, this will go away in 24 to 48 hours.
- You can alleviate pain and help with improving healing time by applying moist heat on the extracted area.
- Soft food diets are recommended for the first few days. Avoid strenuous activity for the next few days.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes to prevent damaging the sutures.
- Use special mouthwash to kill any bacteria in the mouth.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times daily.
- Once the gums have healed, you’ll need to take care of your implants. The good new is taking care of it is easy as all you have to do is brush your teeth after every meal and floss once a day.
- Special brushes and floss can help you clean the hard-to-reach parts of your dental implants.
- Be sure to schedule routine exams and cleanings.
- With good care and hygiene, your teeth implants can last the rest of your life.
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