Your teeth play a crucial role in basic everyday tasks that we tend to take for granted until one or more of them goes missing. If you’ve suffered from tooth loss, you may find that simple things like speaking, eating, and smiling suddenly become more challenging. Fortunately, your dentist can rebuild your grin with dental implants. These restorations are the only ones that are surgically inserted into your jawbone for additional stability. They provide many unique advantages over alternatives like dentures and dental bridges as a result.
If you have an upcoming implant procedure, it’s normal to have questions. One of the first things many patients want to know is how long it takes. If you’re wondering, keep reading to find out!
How Long Does It Take to Get Dental Implants?
The answer to this question varies from person to person because it depends on your unique circumstances. Plus, it generally takes multiple appointments to complete the process from start to finish. The first step is to schedule a consultation with your dentist to verify whether you’re a good candidate for this type of restoration. They’ll ensure that your mouth is in good health and that your jawbone is strong enough to support them. If additional services are required, like undergoing a bone graft to bulk up your jaw, you can safely anticipate several additional weeks or months of recovery.
Surgically placing the dental implants typically takes one to two hours but it can be more or less, based on your situation. For example, if you’re receiving multiple artificial teeth then your procedure will take longer than someone who only needs one. Most dentists numb the area and/or provide sedation so that you’re comfortable the entire time and can set your mind at ease.
How Long is Dental Implant Recovery?
Once the implant posts are inserted into your jawbone, it typically takes about 3 months to recover. During this time, your body will generate new bone growth that will integrate with the titanium rods in your jaw in a process known as osseointegration, so that they’re rooted firmly in place. You’ll likely experience some moderate swelling and aching, especially once the anesthesia wears off after your procedure. This typically only lasts for a few days and should gradually dissipate.
If you develop a toothache, bleeding, or infection that persists or gets worse, then let your dentist know. They’ll want to ensure everything is healing as intended to prevent a potential implant failure later.
Although you may need to practice patience throughout the process, the wait will be worth it when you can finally enjoy the many benefits of your newly restored smile!
About the Author
Dr. Xhelo Shuaipaj has more than 25 years of experience offering a full range of services to help people enhance their oral health, including dental implants. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from The Loyola University College of Dental Surgery and is one of the very few select general dentists in the area who is certified and licensed to administer sedation. He also as a Fellowship in The International Congress of Oral Implantologists, which makes him a respected expert who’s happy to help restore your smile. Using advanced technology, he can perform every step of the process in-office including your implant surgery. If you’ve suffered from tooth loss and would like a consultation, you’re welcome to request one on the website or by calling (630) 968-8439.