Did you know that a projected 23 percent of Americans will have dental implants by 2026? More and more dental patients are seeing the investment value of implants as a solution to missing teeth and other dental problems.
Have you ever wondered if dental implants are right for you? How long do dental implants take to heal? Read on for all the information you need to know about getting dental implants.
Benefits of Dental Implants
If you’ve lost your teeth due to decay, injury, or disease, dental implants can improve your quality of life. You will be able to resume eating and speaking normally.
When you lose teeth and the associated bones, your jaw can actually shrink with bone loss. Getting dental implants will prevent that shrinkage and keep your jaw healthy.
One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is that they will restore your smile. When you can show your teeth confidently, it can do wonders for your self-esteem.
Types of Dental Implant Procedures
Your implant procedure will be completely unique based on how many teeth need to be replaced, the types of dental implants, and additional procedures such as bone grafts.
For instance, your procedure will be straightforward and easy if you have a healthy jawbone and you do not need any grafting.
However, more complex procedures take more time and need more extensive aftercare. A moderate implant procedure may require several implants to replace the missing teeth.
In rare situations, the implant procedure can be complex. Some patients who need quite a few implants or respond badly to the surgery have extended recovery times.
The Dental Implant Recovery Process
After your surgery, you will most likely experience pain, discomfort, and swelling. If your dentist prescribes medicine such as painkillers, take them as instructed.
Depending on the type of procedure you had, you can expect to resume normal life anywhere from a few days to several weeks after you get your new dental implants. Discuss the recovery timeline with your dentist if you have questions or concerns.
Make sure to stick to a soft food diet for a while. Some of the best soft foods include things like smoothies, frozen yogurt, applesauce, and soup.
Rest is another key factor in your recovery regimen. Take time off if you need to, and try not to do any strenuous activity. Your body will thank you for it later.
Once your implants are fully healed, you can resume your regular dental maintenance routine with exams and teeth cleaning.
How Long Do Dental Implants Take To Heal?
So, how long do dental implants take to heal? The process is different for every patient, but you should discuss it with your oral surgeon or dentist before you begin your implant journey.
Are you ready to enjoy the benefits of dental implants? Dr. Tuan Pham is here to help.
With almost two decades of experience in the dental field, we can assist you with all of your dental needs in the Redlands area. Schedule an appointment today to get started.