Full Mouth Dental Implants Recovery Time

Dental Implant Recovery Time

Dental implants are a permanent solution often used to replace missing or damaged teeth. The procedure includes both surgical and prosthetic components. The surgical component, however, requires sufficient healing time. Potential patients often want to know what to expect for a recovery time from dental implants.

Below is some helpful information regarding recovery process for dental implants:

1. It is common for patients to return to work one day following the procedure. In some cases, the patient may return to work the same day of the treatment.
2. Most patients can manage their pain and discomfort using an over-the-counter pain medication.
3. The average healing time for dental implants is approximately 4-6 months. The area must be complete healed before the crown can be placed.

The healing process after the placement of a dental implant is a complex process and can drastically vary from patient to patient. Some of the factors which can influence the healing time are discussed in the following article.

Medication

Though it is technically a surgical procedure, implant placement is a relatively minor procedure. Because it is a minor procedure, it also has a quick expected recovery time. Patients often only need to take an over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen to manage their discomfort. The sutures are typically removed about two weeks following the procedure. Once the sutures are removed, most patients can resume their regular activities and routines.

Osseointegration

Dental implants are placed directly into the bone. This allows the implant to replace the root of the tooth and serve as a strong and secure foundation. Once the implant is placed in the jaw bone, it can take a few months for osseointegration to take place. Osseointegration is a term used to describe the direct structural and functional connection between the living bone and the surface of the artificial implant. Through the implant process, the bone fuses to the implant and provides enough stability to secure a tooth. This process must occur organically and is not able to be expedited. For most patients, the process takes approximately 2-4 months. Once osseointegration is complete, the crown is then attached to the dental implant. Patients can begin chewing on the implant and using it as though it is a natural tooth.

Special Cases

The implant process will take longer for patients who have a failing tooth that needs to be extracted. The dentist must wait for the bone to fully heal prior to placing the implant. Often times, a bone graft is placed in the tooth socket which aids in holding the bone open. This allows for easier implant placement in the future.

In some cases, which are rare, the implant is placed the same day of the tooth extraction. This can be beneficial for patients because it helps expedite the healing process and the patient can receive the implant faster. However, not all patients are good candidates for immediate implant placement. The dentist can evaluate your case to help determine if you are a good candidate for immediate implant placement.

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