Dental implants are the gold standard for tooth replacement, and for a good reason. Not only do they have a high success rate, but they permanently replace the entire tooth structure, from root to crown. Dental implant surgery, like any surgery, requires exceptional aftercare for a speedy and successful recovery.
After dental implant surgery, patients can expect mild bruising, discomfort, and swelling around the implant site or face. The healing process typically takes a week; after 7–10 days, patients can resume their usual diet.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Not all patients are good candidates for dental implants, so Dr. Hosaka will first perform a thorough oral health evaluation and present you with treatment options. If you're a candidate for implants, he will create a treatment strategy with detailed steps for each phase of the process.
Here are some general steps associated with implant dentistry:
- Damaged tooth removal, if needed
- Jawbone or gum preparation (grafting), if needed
- Dental implant placement
- Bone growth and healing
- Abutment placement
- Artificial tooth placement (crown, bridge, denture)
Before placing the dental implant, Dr. Hosaka will ensure you're comfortable by providing a local anesthetic to numb the surgical site. He will then gently place the implant into the jawbone and seal the gums surrounding the implant post.
Once the jawbone and gums heal, you'll have a return appointment during which Dr. Hosaka will attach your dental crown, denture, or other restoration to the implant, thus completing your new and improved smile.
Dental Implant Recovery and Aftercare
Your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions regarding recovery and aftercare, but here are some general tips:
- Gently brush teeth and dental implants.
- Only eat soft foods, like yogurt, lukewarm blended soups, oatmeal, and bananas.
- Do not spit or use a straw.
- Avoid hot foods and beverages.
- Avoid hard, sharp, crunchy, and chewy foods.
- Avoid smoking and using tobacco products.
- Avoid drinking alcohol.
- Don't bend over, stand quickly, or do any strenuous activities.
- Elevate your head when lying down.
These tips can promote a faster recovery and prevent excessive swelling, bleeding, pain, and dry socket.
Dental Implants in Smyrna, GA
Recovery from dental implant surgery is easy with our team on your side. If you need assistance before, during, or after dental implant placement, give us a call. We are here for you!
Implant surgery doesn't have to be painful or scary. Dr. Ryo Hosaka and our team at Hosaka Family Dental are kind, gentle, and experienced in providing exceptional care, whether you need a tooth extraction, bone grafting, or dental implants.