Introduction
Denture implants are a great way to improve your smile and your ability to eat and speak. However, a healing process must occur like any surgery before you can fully enjoy your new implants.
Here’s a brief overview of the different stages of healing you can expect to experience.
1. Immediate Post-Operative Stage
The first few days after your surgery are typically the most uncomfortable. You will likely experience pain and swelling, and your incisions may be tender to the touch. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to help you manage pain and may recommend putting ice on the area to reduce swelling. It is essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions to heal properly.
2. Early Healing Stage
Within the first week or two after surgery, you will see some improvement in your symptoms. The pain and swelling should start to subside, and you should be able to move around a bit more easily. You may still feel discomfort when touching or moving the incision site, but this should also gradually improve. Your surgeon will also probably remove any stitches or staples during this time.
It is essential that you avoid doing any strenuous activity or eating hard foods. Stick to soft foods and drink plenty of fluids.
3. Late Healing Stage
By this point, most of the discomfort should be gone, and you should be able to move around without much difficulty. The incision site may still be slightly sensitive, but it should not interfere with your daily activities. You may notice some scarring at the site, but it will continue to fade over time until it is barely noticeable.
4. Final Healing Stage
The final healing stage can relieve many people who have had pain and discomfort during the earlier stages. This is when your implants are fully healed, and you can expect to feel back to normal. You may still have minor pain and discomfort, but it should be manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
What to Expect after Dental Implant Surgery
Here are a few things to expect during the denture implant healing stages:
1. Soreness and Swelling. This is normal after any surgery and should start to improve within a few days. You can help reduce swelling by applying ice to the area and keeping your head elevated.
2. Stitches. You will likely have stitches in place for about a week. These will need to be kept clean and dry to prevent infection.
3. Bruising. This is also normal and should start to fade within a few days.
4. Soft Diet. You must stick to soft foods for the first week while your mouth heals. Avoid anything crunchy, hard to chew, or acidic.
5. Oral Hygiene. It is essential to brush and floss your teeth regularly, even if it is difficult to reach all areas. This will help prevent infection and promote healing.
6. Follow-Up Appointments. You will need to see your dentist for follow-up appointments to ensure healing is progressing as it should.
What Are the Warning Signs That Says Something Is Wrong
A few things can go wrong during the healing process, so it is essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms that something may not be suitable. If you experience any of the following, be sure to contact your dentist right away:
1. Severe pain that is not relieved with medication.
2. Heavy bleeding or persistent oozing from the surgical site.
3. Swelling that continues to get worse instead of better.
4. Redness, warmth, or pus coming from the surgical site.
5. A fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).
Conclusion
Dental implants are a great way to improve your smile and confidence. However, knowing the different healing stages associated with denture implants is essential. It is also essential to be mindful of the different symptoms experienced during each stage. By understanding the healing process, patients can be more prepared for what to expect.
Melrose Dental Group offers dental implants in Melrose, MA, that can help restore your smile. Our team will review available options during your consultation and discuss the implant surgery and recovery process. Let us assist you before making any decisions so you can feel confident about your dental treatment choice. Schedule an appointment with us today!