You recently underwent dental implant surgery and are not feeling very well. You're sore and the implant site is causing discomfort. Should you worry and call Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez or is pain after dental implants normal?
Here's what you need to know.
What to Expect When Getting Dental Implants
If you are still thinking about getting implants but are afraid that they may be too painful, here's what you should know about the process.
First, Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez will make sure that you are a good candidate for dental implants and create a personalized treatment plan
After the investigations and any necessary additional procedures (like a bone graft) are done, Dr. Rodriguez will place a metal post into your jawbone beneath the gum line. This will serve as the new tooth's root. After the implant is placed, your jawbone will need to heal. This process, called osseointegration, can take several months.
Once your jawbone has healed and the implant fused with the surrounding tissues, Dr. Rodriguez will attach the abutment and then the dental crown.
Dental Implants Healing Timeline
- Immediately after surgery: You may experience some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding. These symptoms usually last for about 48-72 hours and gradually decrease thereafter. So, to answer your question, yes, some level of pain after getting dental implants is normal and to be expected.
- The first week after surgery: You may still experience some discomfort, but your symptoms should start to subside.
- Two weeks to a month after surgery: The implant site should be healed by now. However, there's more going on under the surgery site as your body is now growing new tissue around the metal post.
- Three to six months after surgery: This is how long it usually takes the implant to integrate with the jawbone. Once the metal post has bonded with the jawbone, the dentist can complete the implant.
Tips for Recovering After Dental Implants
Follow these tips to ensure a smooth recovery after dental implant surgery:
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or hot food and drinks as they can irritate the implant site. Stick to a soft food diet for about a week.
- Maintain good oral hygiene but make sure to avoid the implant site in the first few days. Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez will give you specific instructions on how to care for your implant.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol as they can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Avoid strenuous physical activity for a few days after surgery.
- Use OTC pain medication to manage your discomfort.
- Contact Dr. Rodriguez if your symptoms are getting worse. Severe pain, excessive bleeding, or any other concerning symptoms could be signs that something is wrong with your implant.
Dental Implants in Chicago, IL
At Diversey Dental Studio, you can count on our passion and dedication to helping our patients restore their smiles.
Contact us now to book an appointment for an initial dental implant consultation.
