Dental implant surgery is one of the best ways patients can restore both the look and function of their smile.
If you have missing teeth and are interested in getting an implant, you likely have a lot of questions regarding the healing period, which can take anywhere between 4-6 months. Why does healing take so long? How do you know if your symptoms are normal?
Here is everything you need to know about the healing process of a dental implant.
Dental Implant Timeline Overview
The dental implant process is perhaps a bit more complex than most people would assume. Here is a quick overview of a standard dental implant procedure:
- Initial Consultation - The surgeon first makes sure you are a good candidate for implant surgery by reviewing your oral health and medical history;
- Surgery Preparation - In some cases, patients can require additional procedures before they can get dental implant surgery, such as a bone graft or a sinus lift. The surgeon will determine if this is the case during your consultation, and schedule the preparatory procedures accordingly;
- Implant Surgery - The surgeon makes an incision into your gums and inserts the implant, which is a metal object that slightly resembles a screw. It acts like your tooth’s root and allows the crown to be permanently attached;
- The Healing Process - Once the metal implant is inserted, the process of osseointegration begins. During it, your jawbone and gums will essentially heal around the implant and hold it steady for the rest of the dental implant elements to be attached. This process can take as long as 6 months;
- Getting the Abutment and Crown Mold - Once you have fully healed, the dentist will place the abutment (which allows the crown and implant to connect) and take a mold of your mouth to send it to a lab for the custom crown;
- Receiving Your Crown - The final stage is getting your crown attached to the abutment. After this, the procedure is done.
What to Expect When Healing After Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implant surgery is fairly straightforward, and the risk of complications or even implant failure is extremely low.
It is possible to experience some symptoms post-up, either because of the anesthesia or because the implant site needs a bit more time to heal:
- Fatigue
- Disorientation
- Soreness
- Mild pain or discomfort
- Swelling
- Mild bleeding, etc.
However, most of these symptoms will disappear even the next day post-up, and by the end of the first week post-op, you should not be experiencing any major discomfort. The site will be most likely fully healing, and all that’s left is for the osseointegration process to run its course.
If you’re wondering if you are a good candidate for dental implant surgery, Dr. Charles Poblenz is here to help you make an informed decision.
Book your first consultation at JAX Dental Studios today!
