Recovery from dental implants is a multi-stage process. The initial recovery time for dental implant surgery is very short – you will be feeling better and able to return to work within just a few days. The second stage of recovery, during which the implant fuses with the jaw bone, can take several months, but this phase of recovery and healing will have very little impact on your usual lifestyle.

What to Expect Immediately After Dental Implant Surgery

Dr. Emery and Capital Center place dental implants under either local anesthetic or IV sedation.

  • Local anesthetic will probably leave your mouth feeling numb for a few hours after the procedure, but your mental state will be unaffected.
  • IV sedation puts you into a relaxed, sleepy state, during which you won’t feel any pain. If you choose this type of anesthesia, you will continue to feel drowsy for a few hours after the implant fitting procedure. You will need to refrain from driving or operating machinery during this time.

You should probably expect to rest for a full day after getting dental implants placed. You may need to take painkillers such as ibuprofen or Tylenol to relieve pain in the extraction site. During the first 24 hours, you might have bleeding, which can be controlled by biting down on gauze.

Will Dental Implant Recovery Make Me Miss Work?

Chances are you’ll be back on the Metro right away after your dental implant placement. Many people return to work following a single day of rest after dental implant surgery, whereas others feel that they need an extra day or two to recover. There is no rule to say you must stay off work during the recovery time for dental implant surgery, but you should avoid overexerting yourself if possible to help your body recover quickly. Listen to your body and rest if you need to.

The Days Following Dental Implant Surgery

The most important stage in the recovery time for dental implant surgery is the first two weeks. During this time, you should eat soft foods, refrain from smoking, and continue rinsing with salt water or oral rinse several times a day. Taking these steps will avoid irritating the extraction site and minimize the risk of infection. If one of our oral surgeons has given you antibiotics or other types of medication to take, make sure you take them as directed.

Long-Term Recovery Time for Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants gradually fuse with your natural bone in a process that can take several months to complete. You should keep all follow-up appointments with our office, even if you feel well, as it is essential to check on the progress of the implant’s integration.

Is the Recovery Time for Dental Implant Surgery Worth It?

Dental implants can make a massive difference to your quality of life. They not only look natural, but they also give you the full functionality of normal teeth. Compared to the benefits that most people gain from dental implants, the recovery time is very minor. If you are at all concerned about any aspect of getting dental implants, including the recovery period, please feel free to call us or set up a dental implant consultation where one of our oral surgeons can provide information that is specific to your case.

Do you have more questions about dental implants? Schedule a consultation at our office today!