How Long Is the Healing Process for Dental Implants?

BY: Dr. Sandeep Sharma
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a pretty young woman sitting in a dental chair.

How Long Is the Healing Process for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are popular alternatives to dentures and dental bridges as a way to replace missing teeth. They act as artificial teeth, taking the place of real teeth that was lost. However, many people are curious about how long is the healing period after getting dental implants.

Obviously, everyone’s body is different and heals at its own pace. Still, in this blog post, we’ll give you a general idea of what to expect during tooth implant recovery time.

If you’re considering getting dental implants, be sure to read this post first!

What Should I Expect During A Dental Implant Procedure?

A dental implant is a metal post surgically placed into the jaw bone under the gums. Once in place, it acts as an artificial tooth root. A small metal connector, called an abutment, is then placed on top of the implant, and a new tooth (called a crown) is attached to the abutment. The entire process usually takes several months and may require two or more surgeries.

During the initial surgery, this is what happens:

  • Your oral surgeon will numb the area around your tooth to make sure you’re comfortable.
  • They will make an incision in your gums to expose the bone underneath.
  • A small hole will then be drilled into the bone
  • The implant, which is a titanium post, will be inserted.
  • Your gums will then be stitched closed around the implant.
  • The implant will be allowed to heal and fuse with the bone for several months before the second surgery is performed.

During the second surgery, the oral surgeon will make another incision in your gums to expose the implant. The abutment will then be attached to the implant, and a temporary tooth (or teeth) may be placed on top of the abutment. It usually takes about two weeks for the soft tissue to heal around the abutment.

Once healed, you will return to your dentist’s office so they can take impressions or digital images of your mouth to make your permanent crown (or teeth). It generally takes one or two visits to get your dental restoration.

Most people report feeling little to no pain during either surgical procedure. However, you may experience some swelling and bruising of your gums, face, and neck. These side effects usually resolve within one week. For pain relief, over-the-counter pain medications may be taken.

Recovery time after dental implant placement varies from patient to patient but is typically short. Most people return to their normal daily activities within one or two days after surgery.

If you are considering dental implants as an option to replace missing teeth, talk to your implant dentist or oral surgeon. Discuss your expectations and concerns during your consultation appointment. They can answer any questions about what to expect during every stage of your dental treatment plan.

How Long Does Dental Implant Surgery Take?

The length of dental implant surgery can vary, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Generally, it takes about one to two hours for a single implant to be placed. Additional dental procedures, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts, may increase the total treatment time.

Will I Be Able To Go Back To My Normal Routine Right After Implant Placement?

Most people can return to their normal routine within a few weeks after implant placement. However, it’s important to remember that the healing period after getting dental implants and how the human body reacts to the operation is different for everyone.

The initial oral surgery will usually require a 1-2 week recovery period, but it typically takes 5-7 days for post-surgical symptoms to subside. Generally, the jaw and gums will take 3-6 months to fully heal. It’s important to refrain from doing strenuous activities during the first few weeks after surgery.

Why Do Dental Implants Take So Long to Heal?

Healing after dental implant surgery is a process that takes time. Depending on the individual, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months. There are a few reasons why healing after dental implants can take longer than other types of surgeries.

  1. Healing occurs in stages, and each stage takes time.
  2. The implant must fuse with the jawbone. This osseointegration process can take several weeks or even months. During this time, it’s important to avoid putting too much pressure on the implant so it can heal properly.
  3. The gum tissue must heal. After the implant is placed, the gum tissue will need to heal around it. This can take a few weeks.
  4. Some people simply heal more slowly than others. Understanding the healing process can help patients be patient and avoid complications.
dental specialist examining teeth of a senior citizen

What Are the Dos and Don'ts During the Healing Period of Dental Implants?

The healing period after getting dental implants is vital to the success of the procedure. During this time, it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully so that your implants heal properly.

Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind during the healing period:

Do:

  • Practice good oral hygiene and clean your mouth by brushing and flossing regularly to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
  • Avoid hard or crunchy foods that could damage your implants, and stick to eating soft foods. Furthermore, avoid sticky foods and hot foods and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
  • Take any pain medication prescribed by your dentist to help with any minor discomfort or swelling.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments with your dentist.

Don’t:

  • Skip brushing or flossing, as this could lead to infection.
  • Chew on hard objects, such as ice or candy.
  • Smoke, as this could delay healing time, increase the risk of infection, and affect oral health.
  • Neglect regular dental appointments, as your dentist will need to monitor your healing progress.

How Soon Can I Have My New Teeth After Implant Placement?

Patients often wonder how soon they can have their new teeth after dental implants have been placed. The answer to this, though, isn’t as simple as you might think. This is because several factors can affect how long the process takes.

In general, however, you can expect to have your new teeth anywhere from four to six months after your implant surgery. It takes a bit of time because your dentist needs to make sure the implants are fully healed before they put the new teeth on them. They don’t want anything putting undue stress on the implants before they’re ready for it.

Once they’re healed, though, your dentist can start the process of making and fitting your new teeth. And then you’ll be smiling like new in no time!

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering dental implants, rest assured that the recovery process isn’t overly complicated and shouldn’t take too long. A dentist can provide more accurate timelines for your particular case but generally speaking, you’ll have a brand new smile within four to six months of your implant surgery.

Now that you know more about dental implants and what to expect, it’s time to take the next step. Book an appointment online or contact Clear Choice Dental today.

Our team of dentists will work with you every step of the way so that your implant surgery is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Visit our dental clinic and we can’t wait to help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve!

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, bone grafting is a safe procedure. The material used to build up the area around your dental implant is designed to be biocompatible with your body and is well-tolerated. Your dentist can help you understand the risks and benefits of a bone graft before your procedure.

The most commonly used materials for dental implants are titanium and zirconia. Both are strong enough to withstand the forces of biting and chewing and can last for many years with proper care. Your dentist can help you decide which type is suited to your needs.

Dental implants are expensive because they require specialised care and expertise. The initial treatment cost of a dental implant can include the cost of the implant itself, an abutment, and a dental crown.

In addition, your dentist may need to perform additional procedures prior to the procedure, such as a bone grafting to add bone tissue. Tooth removal may also be necessary if the damaged tooth is still present. These could all add to the overall expense.

While dental implants have high success rates, implant failure is always a possibility. Dental implants are considered successful when they fuse to the bone and support the tooth or teeth without any issues.

There are a few ways your dentist can check to see if your replacement tooth is successful.

  • Radiographic examinations, or x-rays, are often taken at future appointments to check how well the bone is fusing to the implant.
  • Another way to evaluate success is by how well you can chew and how your bite feels.
  • To get a better idea of how your implant is doing, your dentist may gently tap on it to see how well it is attached to the bone and tissue surrounding it.

In general, as long as you take good care of your teeth and gums, there is no reason why your dental implant shouldn’t be just as successful as your natural teeth!

patient holding mirror looking at teeth procedure after caries infection
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