Healing Process for Dental Implants
After dental implant surgery, a proper healing process is essential to ensure the long-term success and stability of the implant. Understanding the healing process can help you prepare and know what to expect as you embark on your new tooth journey.
What to Expect After Surgery
Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) will provide post-surgery instructions:
- Minimizing activity: You may be asked to avoid strenuous exercise and physical activity following surgery. Resting and minimizing activity allows the body to focus on healing without putting undue stress on the surgical site.
- Managing discomfort: Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising at the surgical site is normal. Your OMS may prescribe or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce postoperative discomfort.
What is the Osseointegration Stage?
Osseointegration is the fusion of the implant with the surrounding bone. In the first few days to weeks after surgery, the bone and surrounding tissues begin to heal. Over several months, new bone cells grow and attach to the implant, holding it securely in place.
To ensure the long-term success and stability of the implant:
- Nutritional support: A soft diet is usually recommended during the early stages of healing to avoid putting unnecessary pressure and stress on the surgical site. Your OMS will provide specific dietary guidelines tailored to your unique situation.
- Oral hygiene tips: Proper oral hygiene is essential for a successful healing process. Your OMS will give instructions on how to care for the implant during the healing period, including specific guidelines for gentle brushing techniques, use of mouthwash, and cleaning the surgical site.
- Plan for follow-up visits: Regular follow-up appointments allow your OMS to monitor the healing progress and check implant stability. These appointments are necessary to assess the success of the osseointegration process and determine readiness for final restoration.
- Prepare for the final restoration placement: Once the implant has fully bonded to the bone and the gum tissue has matured, the final restoration such as a crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture can be placed. These restorations are customized to the shape, color, and function of your natural teeth to give you a complete and functional smile.
