Dr. Ash Sagar 
Tooth loss is common, and it can be caused by trauma or disease. Dental implants can aid in the replacement of missing teeth.
If you’re thinking about getting dental implants, you might be wondering about what life will be like after the procedure and in the long run. Because each situation is unique and no two patients are the same, our Narre Warren Dental Care team will provide you with further information regarding your case . Here, we will address some frequently asked questions and concerns.
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What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a screw-like artificial tooth root that is used to replace natural tooth roots. A dental implant is composed of materials that are suitable for the human body, such as titanium, and has been performed in the upper and lower jaws for decades. They provide a solid foundation for artificial replacement teeth such as dental crowns, bridges, and dentures by attaching to the jawbone and gum tissue.
Dental implants can be used as a substitute for a single tooth or several teeth and support partial or complete dentures. Implants and crowns are placed inside the mouth and do not need any adhesives to stay in position. Dental implants are the most natural-looking restoration alternative, and they are suitable for restoring lost or severely decayed teeth. They are also an excellent replacement for dentures.
How to Take Care of Dental Implants While Healing?
Osseointegration usually takes 3-6 months in most cases. This amount of time may overwhelm some individuals. However, recovering following dental implant surgery is not as difficult as many people believe. Here are some ways to help you heal quickly after dental implant surgery to make your recovery even faster and easier:
Take a rest
Resting is one of the best ways you can do to help your body recover. If you start feeling worn down, this is your body’s way of signalling you to pause, and it is essential that you pay attention to your body while recovering from dental implant surgery. Trying to force yourself will only slow your recovery period. Even if you begin to feel better, it is still recommended that you avoid intense activities and any activities that may raise your risk of being hit in the face, as both of these might increase the risk of postoperative problems.
Have a nutritious diet
Many patients are concerned about what they can eat after undergoing dental implant surgery. Hot or spicy meals should be avoided for the first 48 hours following surgery since they can trigger bleeding or irritate the surgical site. Another tip is to consume only soft foods. It would be best to focus on consuming meals that require little to no chewing in the days following surgery, as jaw movement might discomfort the surgical site. As the incision heals, you can slowly resume light chewing, but be careful to follow your dentist’s recommendations for what to eat.
It is crucial not just to eat soft meals, but also to eat healthy foods. After dental implant surgery, providing your body with the necessary nutrition helps you heal faster and reduces the chance of postoperative complications.
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated helps your body to flush away toxins that may slow your healing. Hydration is also important for staying energised and feeling good. In addition to consuming plenty of water, you should avoid coffee and alcohol, both of which are known to dehydrate the body. Alcohol can also hinder the healing process and should be avoided for at least two weeks after surgery, preferably until fully recovered. Drinking from a straw is also advised to be avoided during the healing time.
Rinse your mouth with saltwater
Warm salt water rinses reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth without irritating the incision, and they are also soothing. To prepare a salt water rinse, combine one teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water. Once the salt has dissolved, gently swish the mixture in your mouth for around 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Avoid smoking
Even if you haven’t had dental surgery, smoking is bad for your oral and general health. Smoking after having dental implants, on the other hand, can have a negative impact on your chances of a successful recovery.
Nicotine and tobacco products have also been shown to have adverse effects on osseointegration, which indicates that smokers have a higher risk of implant failure than nonsmokers. Hence, it is advised that you avoid or refrain from smoking during your recovery period.
Oral hygiene is important
Even though dental implants are not real teeth, they still need proper oral hygiene. Your oral hygiene routine may slightly change as you progress through the stages of recovery, but it is essential that you follow your dentist’s advice to ensure that you are keeping your mouth as clean as possible. This reduces the risk of an infection forming around the surgery site.
How Long Does It Take for Dental Implants to Heal?
The recovery period for dental implants varies based on your medical and dental history, the state of your jaw bone prior to surgery, the number of teeth replaced, and whether you required bone or gum grafting. Depending on the situation, the recovery could last a few days or a few weeks. On average, it just takes a couple of days to feel normal again. It takes about 3-6 months for your jawbone and gum tissue to heal completely. Age, health, and hygiene are also factors to consider.
Factors that Affect Recovery Time of Dental Implants
There is no standard recovery time since each patient’s oral condition influences the procedure. The following factors may have an impact on your recovery time:
- The total number of teeth extracted and received treatment.
- The health of your bones.
- If your case requires bone grafting.
- Personal differences and healing times.
- Your lifestyle (smoking can slow your recovery).
Want to learn more? Read our detailed guide: Dental Implants Procedure: What You Need To Know
Potential Risks and Complications of Dental Implants
Dental implant surgery, like any other procedure, carries some health risks. But, problems are uncommon, and when they happen, they are usually minor and can be treated.
- Infection at the site of the implant.
- Injuries or damage to nearby tissues, such as other teeth or blood vessels.
- Nerve damage can result in discomfort, numbness, or tingling in your natural teeth, gums, lips, or chin.
- The upper jaw implant may cause sinus problems and pressure.
- Jaw pain and a fractured jaw.
Minor discomfort or pain is normal following the dental implant procedure. However, if excessive bleeding or swelling persists, contact your dentist immediately.
FAQ's About Dental Implants
How long do implants last?
Even if the dental implants are artificial tooth roots, proper care is still necessary. Your dental implant can last a lifetime if you practise good oral hygiene habits. The attached artificial replacement tooth, whether a dental crown, bridge, or denture, has a lifespan ranging from 5 to 15 years, depending on how well it is maintained.
The cost of dental implants
The cost of dental implants will vary depending on various factors, including the number of teeth that need to be replaced and if a bone graft or sinus lift is necessary. A dental implant in Narre Warren can cost up to \$5,514 per tooth, according to the national dental charge survey for 2020.
In Victoria, Australia, the average cost of a simple dental implant might range between $2,000 and $5,000 per tooth.
- Consultation: $64.67
- X-Ray per film: $45.01
- Insert one-stage implant (per implant): $2158.28
- Full Crown attached to osseointegrated Implant – veneered indirect: $1876.00
- Implant abutment (per abutment): $911.31
At Narre Warren, affordable payment plan options are available. Talk with one of our team to get an average cost of the treatment.
Does insurance cover implants?
Dental implants are often not covered by health insurance policies in Australia. You must have a high level of extra coverage to be insured for implants. Most additional dental insurance policies cover minor dental treatments such as check-ups and minor fillings, but not major dental operations such as root canal therapy or dental implants.
Alternatives for dental implants?
The following are other dental procedures that can be an alternative to dental implants:
- Removable partial dentures (acrylic or metal)
- Removable complete dentures (acrylic or metal)
- Tooth-supported fixed bridge
- Resin-bonded (otherwise called the Maryland) bridge
- All-on-4 dental implants
