Dental Implant Surgery Side Effects
Dental implants offer a major advance in replacing missing teeth. However, it is a surgical procedure so patients should be aware that, as with any surgery, there are side effects. Fortunately, the typical side effects are temporary and last only a few days.
Your dental implant side effects and how long they last will depend on your general health and how extensive the procedure is. A healthy person who has just one dental implant inserted often can return to work the next day. However, a person who has multiple implants placed or needs extra procedures, such as bone grafts, will experience more side effects and may need a weekend to recover.
With so many variables, it may be hard for you to envision how recovery from implant surgery would affect you. Cosmetic dentist Eugene D. Stanislaus in Brooklyn can explain typical dental implant side effects and what you can expect after your specific procedure.
Dental Implant Side Effects
Dental implant surgery is performed with anesthesia so the surgery itself will not hurt, however you can expect temporary side effects during recovery. Side effects generally last only a few days and then begin to dissipate, generally disappearing in about 10 days. Side effects include:
- Bleeding. Bleeding is a normal side effect during the first 24 hours after surgery and can be controlled by gently biting down on a gauze pad. Limiting activities and maintaining an upright position will also help control bleeding.
- Swelling. Some swelling after surgery is normal and typically increases during the first three to four days, then begins to subside. Depending on the location of the implant, you may experience moderate to severe facial swelling around the surgical site, cheeks, chin, mouth, and up to the eyes. The chance of swelling increases with more invasive surgeries. Using an ice pack on your cheek near the implant site during the first 48 hours will reduce swelling and help manage discomfort.
- Bruising. Many people have bruising of the skin or gums after implant surgery. Black, blue, green, or yellow bruising is possible and may occur two or three days after the procedure. Like swelling, the chance of bruising increases with extensive surgery. In addition, some people simply bruise easier than others. Bruising usually lasts one or two weeks. Applying moist heat to the area 48 hours after surgery may help remove discoloration.
- Pain. You should expect discomfort where the implant was placed and in the surrounding area. Depending on the location of the implant, you may experience pain in the checks, the chin, or beneath the eyes. Discomfort varies from patient to patient, but if your surgery is complex, you should expect greater discomfort. Typically the discomfort lasts about a week and can be managed with pain medications, either prescribed by your doctor or over the counter products.
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Dental implants are more invasive than many dental procedures, but many people with missing teeth agree that the benefits of a secure and beautiful restoration outweigh the temporary inconveniences of recovery.
If you have questions how dental implants can improve your day-to-day life and restore an attractive smile, please call us at Brooklyn Heights Dental® for a personal consultation.