Getting used to dental implants
You’ve put in the work, and now it’s time to get used to and enjoy your new smile. Learn the implant expert-approved tips to make healing and your new daily life easier.
Preparing for next steps
With implants, it’s common for your journey to begin with other forms of care. How long it takes for you to get comfortable with your implants depends on your unique treatment plan, so here’s what you need to know to stay prepared:
Healing your smile
Adjusting to implants
Final restoration
Healing your smile
Within 24 hours after you’ve had a pre-treatment surgery or your implant placement surgery, your rest and recovery is top priority. Prepare the following beforehand so you’re comfortable when you need it the most:
Need-to-know: 24 hours
In the first 24 to 72 hours after your procedure(s), do not brush your teeth, spit, smoke, rinse your mouth, exercise or use tobacco products or a straw. Skipping these will help minimize irritation, excess bleeding and the risk of infection at the area where your implants were placed.
Adjusting to dental implants
In the weeks following your placement procedure, discomfort should be behind you. When you’re ready, add these tips into your daily routine:
Final restoration
Once you’re fully healed, it’s time to celebrate—you’re ready for your final smile! During your final restoration, we’ll craft your new crown or denture and place it in your smile, so you can get back to living the way you love—with implants.
Questions?
Get the most frequently asked questions answered by your implant experts.
How long does it take to get dental implants?
Your implant placement procedure takes as little as a day, while healing can take up to 3 to 4 months. Getting dental implants depends on your current oral health, the health of your jaw bone and if we can place your implants on the same day as any extractions you need. For a more information on how long it will take for you to get dental implants, schedule a consultation with your local Implant expert.
What is a failed implant?
A failed implant refers to an implant that hasn’t fully bonded with your bone, meaning the bone hasn’t healed around the implant, securing it within your jaw. While this is rare, signs of a failed implant can include:
A loose or movable implant
Pain
Swelling
Infection
If you’re concerned that your dental implant hasn’t properly fused with your bone, follow-up treatment options are available. Give your local Aspen Dental care team a call to schedule a follow-up as soon as possible so we can get you comfortable and enjoy your implants again.
What is a bone graft?
Bone grafting refers to a surgical procedure that transplants bone to restore a damaged or diseased section of your jaw bone. Bone grafting can help ensure there is enough bone to correctly place your dental implant.
How can I tell if I have an infection?
You may have an infection if you’re experiencing any of the following:
Fever
Discharge from the implant site
Foul taste in your mouth
If these are any of your symptoms, call your local Aspen Dental care team to set up a follow-up visit as soon as possible.
How do I relieve pain from dental implants?
If you’re experiencing pain, bleeding or swelling within the first week of healing, this is completely normal. Take over the counter pain medication, or any other pain relief medications, that your doctor has prescribed.
If you experience persistent pain, bleeding or swelling that lasts more than 10-14 days, call your local Aspen Dental care team to set up a follow-up visit as soon as possible.
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