The first step in a dental implant procedure is the extraction of the decayed tooth or root (if there are any remaining). A small titanium screw is then threaded into the space where the tooth used to be, called an implant. It is fixed directly in the jawbone. Once the implant has taken hold, the crown is then attached (dental prosthesis).
Implant threading is an invasive procedure carried out by the implant doctor or oral surgeon. However, it is performed under local anaesthesia so that the person does not feel any pain. Patients sometimes tell us that they were much more uncomfortable during the drilling than during the implant procedure.
What happens after the implant is threaded?
As soon as the implant is in place and the wound is closed, the healing process begins. The human body is designed to focus all its energy on recovery if there is even the slightest scratch, scrape or, as in this case, wound. The jawbone starts generating new cells, which envelope the threaded implant and it eventually becomes part of the body. But many people wonder how long does it take for this to happen? We can say that the healing period varies from patient to patient, but it usually takes at least a few months before the bone is firm enough to embrace the implant so that a permanent tooth can be fixed on it. However, there is no need to be afraid – if the tooth is in a visible area, then a temporary tooth is attached to the implant during the healing process. This prevents you from disrupting your social life and walking around with an empty space in place of the tooth.
What does a patient feel after a dental implant?
The dentist always gives detailed instructions on what steps to take and what to avoid after dental implants. Following these instructions is the key to an easy, fast and uncomplicated healing, so it is very important for the patient to take what the doctor says seriously and to follow all the requirements exactly.
It is also very important for the patient to know in advance what to expect after the procedure: which sensations are normal and which should be referred to a doctor. It often happens that patients get scared if they see reddish saliva after surgery. It is therefore important to be aware that it is perfectly normal for the first few days and that there may be a little bleeding – after all, it is a wound, albeit a small one, but it needs time to heal too. You should be concerned if the bleeding is prolonged and intense. In this case, you should see a dentist urgently.
Other common symptoms that can occur after implant placement include swelling of the jaw (which can be relieved with cold compresses), minor bruising, and swelling (which can be relieved with medications prescribed by your doctor).
What should I do after implantation?
The first day after the implant is placed, we advise you not to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth to avoid rinsing away the clot that has formed. The patient must take the medication prescribed by the doctor exactly as prescribed. No smoking for two weeks as hot steam slows down the healing process and may cause more bleeding.
The day after the implant placement, the patient can start brushing very carefully and gently, avoiding the area where the wound is located. For the first few days, it is best to choose soft, mild, non-hot foods and avoid alcohol and hot drinks. For a few weeks, it is advisable to avoid eating hard and sticky foods that may stick or become stuck in the implant site. This usually includes nuts, steak, crackers, ice cream, rice, etc. Once the wound is firmly closed, it will be possible to return to your normal diet.
We also recommend avoiding physical activity, sports or heavy housework for the first two weeks after the implant is placed. Physical exertion usually raises your blood pressure, which can lead to bleeding, increased swelling or pain. All of this prolongs and complicates the healing process.
When do I need to see a dentist?
When the patient is discharged after the procedure, the dentist makes follow-up appointments to check that the healing process is going well and to monitor the situation. If the patient is worried about additional symptoms (nausea, severe headache, weakness, high temperature, etc.), they should call the doctor immediately to arrange a follow-up visit.
When the dentist sees that a denture is ready to be fitted during one of the visits, a date is agreed with the patient for this procedure. Usually, the prosthetic treatment takes place 3-6 months after the implant placement.
How do I care for dental implants?
Once the dental implants have taken hold and the patient is happy with their beautiful new teeth, this does not mean that you can stop taking care of your oral hygiene and health. In fact, to make them last as long as possible, they need to be cared for in the same way as your own teeth: twice a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste, flossing, preventive dental care and professional oral hygiene twice a year.
“Dantų meistrai” specialists are always ready to help and advise if patients have any questions about implants or other procedures. We believe it is very important to know all aspects of the procedure before it is carried out. This way, each patient feels safer and more confident and realistic about their situation.
Contact us by phone: +370 615 66655 by email: info@dantumeistrai.lt
