Are you getting ready for dental implant surgery? It can be daunting going into a procedure that you’ve never had before and aren’t sure what to expect. To help you prepare and have the least stressful experience possible, read some of the most common post-operative questions patients ask below, along with their answers.
How long will it take to heal after dental implant surgery?
There are two main stages of healing that occur after your dental implant surgery. The first is allowing your gums to heal and any discomfort and soreness to subside. This typically takes place over the first two weeks. Most people begin feeling better after the first two days following their surgery. The longer-term healing period is osseointegration. This involves the fusion of the dental implants with the jawbone, which takes place over the course of three to six months.
Will I need to take off work following dental implant surgery?
Most patients need to take at least one day off of work following their surgery; however, many dentists recommend taking two. This will give enough time to allow any sedation effects to fully wear off. The more extensive your case is, the more time you will likely need to take off, so be sure to discuss what the recovery process will look like with your dentist directly.
Can I smoke after dental implant surgery?
Smoking and tobacco use can drastically increase your risk of dental implant failure, so most dentists recommend to quit smoking in the weeks leading up to your procedure, as well as after. You can coordinate your care with your dentist and primary care physician to give you the resources and recommendations needed to help you stop. If you don’t quit, it could cause your implants to not fuse with your jawbone, which is crucial to the long-term health and success of your treatment.
Will I need a follow-up appointment after dental implant surgery?
Yes. Dentists typically schedule follow-up appointments for between three and six weeks after your implant surgery to check on your progress and schedule the next phase of your treatment. They will need to uncover the implant, place the abutment, and make sure there are no signs of infection or other complications.
About the Practice
Long Family Dental of Cleburne is proud to be family-owned and operated for over four decades. Dr. Robert Long and Dr. Chris Long have extensive experience and advanced training in dental implant treatment and are able to complete the surgery, as well as the restoration, in-house. To learn more about dental implant surgery, visit our website or call 817-645-2437.