Clean, pristine, and incredibly realistic — that’s how most people describe dental implants. Made out of three different components, a dental implant is one of the best restorative options for lost or missing teeth. However, the decision to get dental implants is not something to take lightly.
As wonderful as dental implants are, inserting something foreign in your jawbone can definitely take some time to heal completely. Due to this, it’s important to know all about the different dental implant healing stages. This way, if you’re planning to get an implant, you’re fully prepared.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a type of restorative dental procedure. They work as an alternative to dental bridges or dentures. However, the benefits of an implant are far greater than any other procedure out there. Be it for aesthetic reasons or functionality; dental implants qualify for it all. In fact, once inserted and adjusted, an implant can function just like a regular tooth, making your daily routine all the more easy!
Dental Implant Healing Stages
Considering how the base of a dental implant is made entirely out of titanium, having it screwed inside your jawbone can be a little jarring at first. It’s because of this that dentists lay down strict aftercare rules. They may seem extreme, but in order to heal faster, some restrictions need to be maintained.
Plus, even if your body adapts to the titanium screw and grows around it, for your mouth to fully heal, it can take around 6 months. Nonetheless, once you get your implant, you most likely will go through the following dental implant healing stages:
- Stage One: Post-Surgery Care
Right after your surgery, the dentist will evaluate your implant placement and give you some instructions to follow. This can include things like taking proper rest, avoiding strenuous activities, altering your diet, etc. - Stage Two: Soft Tissue Regrowth
Phase two of healing involves your gums. Since they’re swollen and tender after the implant placement, it can signify the soft tissues in your gums are slowly regrowing and repairing themselves. This stage can take around two weeks. - Stage Three: Implant Adjustment
The moment your gums are restored to their full glory, it’s time for your facial structure to adjust around the implant. There may be slight soreness, making it difficult to open and close your mouth. Moreover, it can take your jawbone a month or so to adjust to the foreign feeling in your mouth. - Stage Four: Jawbone Healing Process
When you no longer feel like there is something uncomfortable in your mouth, it can be a sign your jawbone is slowly healing. This entire process lasts for months, all until your jawbone is fully healed. - Stage Five: Long-term Care & Maintenance
Caring for and looking after your implant never ends. Even after the implant has fully settled in, maintaining it is completely up to you, especially if you want to make it last for a lifetime.
Here’s How To Make Your Dental Implant Heal Faster
Follow the tips mentioned below to speed up your dental implant recovery process.
- Take proper rest and avoid activities that easily tire you out.
- Regularly rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution.
- Stick to a strict diet consisting of soft and nutritious foods.
- Apply an ice pack over your jaw to reduce swelling and pain.
- Give up harmful habits like smoking, chewing tobacco, drinking alcohol, etc.
- Don’t skip out on your prescriptions. Make sure to take them timely.
- Apply an OTC numbing gel if the pain gets too much to bear.
- Schedule regular checkups with your dentist.
- Make it a habit to drink more fluids.
- Follow a good oral hygiene routine.
Closing Words
To summarize, there are five dental implant healing stages, and they typically extend to 6 whole months. Throughout this time, it is essential to visit your dentist regularly.
Nevertheless, for more information, contact Signature Smiles. You can also visit us or call at any of our following locations:
- Irving Location: 3654 N Belt Line Rd, Irving, TX 75062, United States
Contact Number: (214) 307-4715 - Plano Location: 5072 W Plano Pkwy Suite 270, Plano, TX 75093, United States
Contact Number: (214) 307-4755