If you are dealing with significant dental trauma or tooth loss, dental implants are a permanent solution that can help restore your smile. The gaps created from missing teeth can also impact speaking and chewing abilities. Many patients enjoy the natural-looking and durable results that implants can offer over replacement options like a resin-retained bridge, a partial denture, or a complete removable denture. However, it is important to care for this type of dental work properly to ensure a better outcome.
Traditional implants require multiple surgeries that allow the tissues to heal and the jaw bone to properly fuse between steps. However, some patients may be candidates for same-day implants. Whether you schedule a single procedure or multiple appointments, most patients can expect the same general type of recovery.
Though the entire process for implant restoration could take as little as six months to complete, there are some options for attaching an artificial tooth in one day. Considering the discomfort from the procedure, it is a good idea for another person to attend the procedure and drive the patient home. It is safe to plan on spending at least two hours at the dental office. Speak to a dental specialist about a more accurate estimate for the procedure.
For the first few days after receiving dental implants, patients will likely experience mild to moderate pain and inflammation. Some light bleeding and minor bruising may occur as well but should clear up within a few days. Patients should be careful to follow the dentist's recommendations for pain medication and can use cold compresses to help keep swelling under control.
For the first few days after the procedure, it is important to be gentle with your teeth and gums as they recover. Eating hard, tough, or crunchy foods can be painful and may cause the stitches to pull, resulting in even more discomfort. A soft-food diet is recommended until the discomfort and swelling subside. Gradually reintroducing other foods can help prevent unnecessary pain or damage.
For the area to heal properly and thoroughly, a clot has to form at the incision site. However, spitting, rinsing, or drinking through a straw can create pressure in the mouth and loosen the clot or prevent it from forming altogether. Dentists recommend avoiding these practices for the first 24 hours after a dental implants procedure.
Implant failure could occur if too much pressure is put on the implant or if an infection develops at the sight of the implant or in the gums. Failure can occur within a few months or over a year later, leading to the potential removal and replacement of the implant.
The first 24 to 48 hours after this treatment require the most specific care. After a day or two, many patients find they feel able to return to normal activities. However, it can take many weeks for the soft tissues to heal completely. It is important to continue to care for dental implants to promote faster healing while preventing complications.
Brushing and flossing are essential, especially around an implant. Use a soft nylon toothbrush and avoid using abrasive toothpaste or mouthwashes. There are several types of flosses designed for use with implants to make flossing easier. Cleaning may look different for the first few weeks after surgery, but once the area has healed enough, patients should resume regular dental care. It is also essential to keep up with follow-up appointments and regular checkups.
In general, patients do not need to make major dietary changes for dental implants. It is wise to avoid or limit extremely hard foods as these can damage the tooth cap. Smoking and tobacco use can increase the chances of implant failure and should be avoided. Chewing on foreign objects or teeth-grinding can also be harmful to implants.
Dental implants are a great option for restoring lost or severely damaged teeth. There is a decreased risk of losing jaw bone density or experiencing problems with eating or speaking when implants replace missing teeth. This restorative solution is convenient and durable, presenting individuals with a reliable option for addressing multiple aspects of oral health. With the proper care both immediately after the procedure and long-term, patients can enjoy the benefits of this type of treatment for a lifetime.
Request an appointment here: https://www.culebrafd.com or call Culebra Family Dentistry at (210) 787-1554 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in San Antonio, TX.
Clear aligners are an effective option for straightening teeth. Aligners are worn over your teeth to straighten them. Aligners are popular partly because they are almost invisible and do not draw attention to the mouth. If you want a straight and beautiful smile, clear aligners could be the ideal solution. Keep reading to learn more…
Patients who feel self-conscious about their smiles might want to consider getting clear aligners. The dentist can help a patient decide if they are a candidate for the treatment plan. After having the aligners for a few months, patients can once more enjoy having straight teeth. Keep reading to learn more about who the right…
Wondering what cosmetic dentistry procedures can be performed by a general dentist? Read on to learn more. Cosmetic dentistry treatments can give you an attractive smile, but it does not stop with the treatment. Maintaining a beautiful smile requires dedication. Good oral hygiene is important as it will help keep your smile bright and avoid…
If you have an abscessed tooth, then a visit to an emergency dentist is important for you. An abscessed tooth is caused by a bacterial infection that causes a pocket of pus to form in different parts of the tooth. This can lead to medium to strong pain that can radiate from the ear to…