Your placement surgery is your first step to completing your smile with dental implants. Your dentist will surgically place a titanium post into your jawbone to mimic a tooth root. Don’t worry if you have a few questions about the recovery process. Here are the answers to common post-op questions about dental implants.
Can I Drive Myself Home?
Sedation or anesthesia will likely be used to keep you comfortable during your placement surgery, which can take a few hours to wear off. Therefore, you’ll need to arrange a ride home. It’s best to have a friend or loved one stay with you for about 12-24 hours until the effects have dissipated fully.
Is It Normal to Experience Bleeding After Leaving the Office?
It is completely normal to experience slight bleeding for 24-72 hours after your surgery. You can control it by gently biting on a piece of gauze. If bleeding worsens or doesn’t improve, contact your dentist for further instructions.
What Can I Eat?
You should temperature-check foods and drinks to avoid accidental burns while your mouth is numb. Your dentist will instruct you to follow a liquid diet for 1-2 weeks. However, don’t use a straw because it can cause healing complications. In a couple of weeks, your dentist will give you the go-ahead to eat soft foods. It’s best to choose foods that require minimal chewing to avoid putting too much pressure on your healing bone.
How Can I Manage Pain?
After the effects of any sedatives or numbing medications wear off, you can expect your mouth to be sore for a few days. You can manage it with a prescribed or OTC pain reliever. Applying a cold compress can also keep you comfortable while reducing swelling and bruising.
How Long Will It Take to Heal?
Your gums will be healed in a couple of weeks, but it will take much longer for your bone to integrate with your post. It can take several weeks for your jaw to fuse with your post through a process called osseointegration. It is worth the wait because you’ll benefit from unmatched stability and a solution that can last for decades.
Is It Normal to Have a Fever?
It is not normal to have a fever after your surgery. It can be a sign of an infection. Contact your dentist right away for an appointment.
Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist any questions you have about your recovery. They’ll explain everything to calm your nerves and ensure successful results.
About Dr. Joy Dang
Dr. Dang earned her dental degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and continued her education to specialize in prosthodontics. She has the training and experience to treat the most complex cases of tooth loss. Request an appointment through her website or contact her office to speak with a member of her dental team.