Information on Dental Implants & Bridges
If you are going to be having dental implants or bridges with an implant put in to replace teeth you lost or that you had extracted, then you want to know just what it is you can expect with regards to your recovery from the procedure. Here are some of the things you want to be prepared for dealing with:
1. Have realistic expectations when it comes to your own recovery timeline.
Understand that there are a lot of things that come into play when it comes to what you can expect with regards to your recovery. Younger people will generally have an easier and faster healing period. Also, a procedure that went well may be easier for you to recover from than one where there were issues that came up along the way. Keep in mind that some people naturally heal faster than others and this can also determine how you do with healing.
The condition of the rest of your mouth is another thing that can determine how well you heal. Plus, the way you treat your mouth after the procedure will have a lot to do with how fast you heal up from having the dental implants put in. In general, the recovery period for one dental implant can take weeks to months.
2. The first few days are going to be the roughest for you to get through.
The good news is the first few days are going to be the roughest. Once you get over that marker, things will seem to get easier and easier as time goes on. Before you know it, you will have forgotten all about the fact that you even had the procedure done at all.
During those first few days after having the implants or implant and bridge combination put in, you can expect swelling and discomfort. However, an over-the counter pain reducer should be all you need to get through this part of your recovery. During the first few days after the procedure it is extremely important for you to not stick your hands in your mouth, or any other objects besides food and eating utensils. Otherwise, you will be increasing your chances of getting an infection.
If you experience swelling on the outside of your cheek, you can use ice packs to help relieve it. Swish around warm salt water in your mouth the first few days after you have had the implant put in, but make sure the water isn't too warm. This rinse will help fend off infection and alleviate some of the discomfort that you will feel.
If you are interested in dental bridges or you have more questions, contact resources such as Scott W. Murphy, D.M.D., P.A.