Dental implants are a popular choice for replacing missing or damaged teeth because they look, feel, and function like natural teeth and are impressively durable. The dental implant procedure requires various appointments over several months, with the exact length depending on the individual.
If you are considering undergoing this procedure, you may be wondering what to expect after a dental implant. Discover both the immediate and long-term effects of getting implants by better understanding the process.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants are slender metal posts inserted into the jawbone at the site of a missing tooth and act as a secure root for an artificial tooth. The implant is attached to the tooth using a small connecting structure known as an abutment. There are various stages to the dental implant procedure which can take several months to complete, these are:
- The initial consultation when your dentist will examine your mouth, gums, and bone and take dental X-rays and 3D images to ensure you are a good candidate for dental implants. At this point, they will talk you through the stages of your personalised treatment.
- The next step is typically dental implant surgery. At this appointment, the dentist will place the implant in your jawbone. Although this part of the dental implant procedure worries some patients, your dentist will use local anesthesia or IV sedation and the highest level of hygiene, including sterilised equipment and an alcohol-based hand sanitiser, to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible. After the dental implant surgery, a process called osseointegration begins. This involves the jaw bone fusing to the implant, creating a secure base for the artificial tooth. Osseointegration takes anywhere from three to six months, so your next appointment may be several months after the surgery.
- Once the dental implants have fused with the bone, the abutment is fitted. The abutment connects to the implant just above the gum line and allows the artificial tooth to attach to the implant.
- After your dentist fits the abutment, you must wait for your mouth to heal before the dentist can take impressions of the implant site. The impressions are sent to the lab to ensure the artificial tooth will be the perfect fit for you.
- Your dentist will fit the artificial tooth in your final appointment -either a single crown, a bridge, or denture- and make sure it is comfortable and blends perfectly with your natural teeth.
At several of our No Gaps Dental locations across New South Wales, we offer CEREC crowns which can be placed the same day as your abutment, cutting down the number of times you return to the dentist. CEREC crown impressions are scanned digitally, making them exceptionally accurate. The digital scans are sent to a computer, and your crowns are made onsite with a milling machine. Your dentist will select a ceramic crown colour to match the shade of your existing teeth for a seamless smile.
What to Expect After a Dental Implant: Will I Experience Discomfort?
When wondering what to expect after a dental implant, most people are concerned about how much discomfort they will face. Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and tenderness for the first three to five days after their dental implant surgery, though how much varies from person to person.
Most over-the-counter painkillers are strong enough to ease post-surgery discomfort, but it’s a good idea to discuss pain relief and other aftercare with your dentist before getting your dental implants. Ice packs can also help reduce pain after undergoing dental implant surgery. Avoid touching the implant site or surrounding area, and make sure you clean your hands, either with soap and water or hand sanitiser, before flossing your other teeth to ensure the dental implant site remains clean.
Will I Bleed?
It is normal to experience some minor bleeding after having dental implants fitted. Often your dentist will place a gauze pad on the implant site and ask you to bite down on it for about an hour to encourage blood clotting. There is typically much less bleeding after a dental implant procedure than after a tooth extraction, but if you are concerned, contact your dentist.
Will I Be Able to Eat Normally?
Another common question about what to expect after a dental implant is whether you will have to limit your diet.
Unlike some other dental treatments like certain orthodontic procedures, dental implants do not affect your diet. Dental implants feel and function just like natural teeth, so you can eat whatever you like. However, it is always wise to avoid sugary or acidic foods to avoid decay and discolouration.
Immediately after your dental implant surgery, you should avoid eating until the anaesthetic has worn off as it is easy to bite your cheek or tongue. Refrain from consuming hot drinks and hard, chewy, or crunchy foods for a few days. Instead, aim to eat soft, nourishing foods to aid healing.
Will I Have a Tooth Gap Between Procedures?
Because there is often a wait of several months between the dental implant procedure and the abutment placement, some patients worry they will be left with a visible gap in their teeth before their dental implants are completely installed. However, your dentist can fill the gap with a temporary crown. Typically, this crown will gain support from surrounding teeth, acting as a temporary bridge.
How Do I Clean My Implant?
Dental implants are durable and, when properly cared for, can last a lifetime. However, just like your natural teeth, they need daily cleaning. You must clean them thoroughly at least twice a day and avoid potentially damaging behaviour such as using your teeth to open plastic packaging. You should also schedule regular appointments with your dental hygienist and ask them for advice on the best way to brush your dental implants.
Receive High-Quality Dental Care
Dental implants allow patients to continue leading a normal life after suffering from missing or damaged teeth and are a permanent solution that lasts.
Our experienced team of dental professionals strives to provide high-quality dental treatment at No Gaps Dental in New South Wales. We use state-of-the-art technologies and pride ourselves on our impeccable hygiene in our clinics, from the mandatory application of hand sanitiser to the use of an ultrasonic cleaner for sterilising dental instruments.
If you are considering dental implants, book an initial consultation with No Gaps Dental today by calling (02) 8806 0227.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.