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Dental Implant Basics – Dental Implants FAQ #3

Here at the Dental Health Blog, our singular goal is to educate and inform our Littleton area community about dental health, best practices among prosthodontists, and the latest news about prosthetic dentistry. With this in mind, here are some basic facts about dental implants: their use and effectiveness as a viable tooth replacement therapy.

Is dental implant surgery painful?

Generally, no, dental implant surgery is not any more painful than receiving a tooth filling. Implant surgery is commonly performed using a local anesthetic in your dentist’s office and, once the anesthesia takes effect, you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure.

What about after the "local" wears off?

Since dental implant surgery rarely involves leaving an open wound behind, healing tends to be quick and pain-free. For any minor discomfort following your oral surgery, an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory should be more than enough to manage any residual pain you experience; for example, ibuprofen.

How long does dental implant surgery take?

This will depend upon the number of implants you receive, as well as their location. However, speaking generally, a simple, uncomplicated dental implant placement will usually require less than an hour.

Can I eat normally after implant surgery?

While your dental professional will offer guidance based on your individual case, it’s usually a good idea to avoid exposing a recent oral surgery site to food, at least for a while. We will usually recommend that you eat soft, nutritious foods, while making sure you keep yourself well hydrated. We will definitely make some dietary recommendations, as well as providing you with instructions on how to care for your new implants during the healing process.

How long does it take to heal from implant surgery?

Of course, every case is different, with different healing times for different patients. We have seen patients heal completely within two months, while others require six to nine months to heal completely from dental implant surgery. Once the implants have fused to the bone however, you will be ready to receive your new prosthetic teeth.

How long will it take you to "make my new teeth"?

Since we are able to fabricate your replacement teeth right here in our office, we will "make your new teeth" for you in-house and install them for you, just as soon as you’ve healed from the surgery. We will then be available for any adjustments and fitting you may need. Once your implants and teeth have been installed though, with proper care and cleaning, they should last you the rest of your life.

It must be said here that not every patient is a viable candidate for dental implants for one reason or another, most commonly due to the amount, or lack, of bone available at the implant site; therefore each patient must be evaluated on an individual basis.

The doctors and staff at the The Colorado Center for Implants and Prosthetic Dentistry, are your full-service Littleton dental implants specialist and are experts in all types of tooth replacement therapy. If you would like more information on your family’s dental needs, make an appointment today.

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