How Long is the Process of Tooth Implant?
Dental implants are incredibly versatile treatments. The dentist can fit them using a partial denture, tooth bridge, full denture, or crown.
This advanced tooth replacement solution provides numerous benefits compared to other options, such as bridges and dentures. Implants are nowadays available in a broad assortment of sizes and shapes.
The dentist in Knoxville will work with you to create implants that match the shade of your nearby teeth and fits well in the gaps. They can be a lifelong part of your smile when well cared for.
The implant procedure usually consists of three phases and differs for every individual. The whole process can take 5 to 8 months to complete.
Is the Dental Implant Process Painful?
Since receiving tooth implants means the jaw has to be cut, it fears many people of the pain it will cause. Typically, there is no need to worry because the procedure is not painful as it seems.
The pain patients feel when getting implant surgery comes from the manipulation of soft tissue during the process.
Moreover, dental implants that do not need the lifting of gum tissue are usually pain-free. When a tiny flap of gum tissue lifting is there, you will feel pain for the first night. The pain usually goes away after that.
If the patient requires bone grafting, the patient will feel the ache for the first three days after the end of the process. In that case, dental professionals typically advise strong pain-relieving medicines.
What Can You Not Do After Dental Implants?
After the tooth implant procedure ends, the patients need to stick to some guidelines. These include:
- Hot and Hard Foods
After getting the dental implants in Knoxville, IA, you will find it hard to eat regular food as your gums heal. The implant specialist advises patients to prefer a soft food diet or drinks that need less or no chewing at all a few days after. These include scrambled eggs, soft pasta, milkshake, yogurt, etc.
Consuming spicy or hot foods can delay healing and cause pain at the implant site. Besides this, do not chew food on the opposite side of the mouth.
- Vigorous Exercises
Doing any heavy physical activity can increase blood flow. It results in bleeding around the implant. Therefore, it is crucial to take complete rest till your dental professional gives you a green signal.
- Smoking
You will also need to avoid chewing tobacco and smoking for the first two months. Nicotine compresses the blood vessels and can make the dental implant fail. Doing this will ensure a fast recovery after the implant placement.
- Drinking via a Straw
The professional at Knoxville Dental Associates also advises patients to avoid using a straw for drinking. The suction can dislodge the blood clot over the implant area, causing a dry socket. It is also crucial to avoid consuming carbonated drinks.
- Harsh Washing
Do not rinse your mouth harshly after two days of surgery. When cleaning your teeth, swish the mouthwash gently around your mouth. Rather than spitting it out, allow it to move out of your mouth.
The implant expert usually recommends a prescription mouthwash with a saltwater rinse. You can easily make a saltwater rinse using 3-part water and 1-part salt. Using salt water for washing your mouth will reduce irritation and keep the mouth clean.
- Caffeine
Caffeine products can cause the failure of an implant and other complications. Therefore, make sure you avoid them for a while.
- Gauze Packs
Avoid removing the gauze packs from your mouth immediately after the implant procedure. When you touch them for the first few hours after the dental implants, they can lead to bleeding and discomfort.
- Driving or Using Any Machinery
Say no to driving or operating heavy machinery for the next 24 hours after leaving the dental office. A dental implant procedure requires the use of a sedative. It makes the patient feel drowsy for a few hours. Thus, make arrangements to reach your home safely after the treatment.
- Abrasive Products
Once you get implants, purchase only sensitive cleaning products. Abrasive products can lead to discomfort in your mouth. Also, say no to oral hygiene products with strong flavors such as cinnamon, mint, etc.