Getting a dental implant can be a big relief for dental health problems, but there will be some discomfort along the way. The surgery requires significant time to heal, and you'll need a reliable way to manage the pain while you recover. Here is what you can expect during your dental implant recovery.
Varies Based on Complexity
There will be some discomfort after having a dental implant placed. However, the amount and method of pain management that you need varies based on the complexity of the procedure. A simple implant placement can heal in a few months, and may require relatively little pain management. Medications are usually used for the first day or two and holistic methods can be used afterward. A more complex process, including a preliminary bone graft, will require more extensive and longer-lasting pain management. It also depends on your pain tolerance. Most people are living a normal life within hours or days of having an implant placed.
24 to 48 Hours Until Normal Activities
The initial recovery from having an implant placed lasts 24-48 hours. During this time, you will likely need some form of OTC (over the counter) medication to address the pain. However, many people do not need prolonged medications. In fact, most people are back to work and their normal lives by the second day after the surgery. The pain has all but disappeared at this point, and temporary holistic remedies can become the standard method of pain management.
Avoid Hot Drinks and Straws
If you want to stay comfortable and avoid damage during that initial recovery period, avoid hot drinks and straws. The surgery will leave your mouth sensitive to temperatures. Hot drinks will irritate the implant site and be painful to deal with. Likewise, straws can be irritating and damage the implant site. Using a straw creates a lot of pressure while contorting the mouth into a new shape. This can dislodge the implant or be painful since it puts a lot of pressure on the nerves around the implant.
Contact Your Periodontist
If you're interested in getting dental implants or you want to know more about the recovery process, contact us today to schedule a consultation.