Receiving dental implants in a single afternoon sounds like a dream come true to many patients – but is the experience really as simple as that? For many patients, it is. Though not everyone is an ideal candidate for receiving new teeth in a day, this is a solution well-suited to many of the patients seen by Oral and Facial Surgeons of Arizona. Many patients have questions about what the procedure is like and how long their recovery period will be. Though every procedure is a little different and people heal at different rates, this will help you make the right decision about your procedure and recovery.
The Appointment Itself
The posts that support your new dental implants have to be carefully set into the jaw. These titanium posts are highly secure and over time will bond with your jaw bone. This placement is performed under local anesthesia, so you are fully aware but feel no pain. You will be able to respond to questions and make your wishes known at any time. Local anesthesia is very effective; most patients experience little to no discomfort during placement.
Next the fabricated crowns are fit into place. Your oral surgeon will check the fit and function of the crown. Once everything has been cleared, you can return home. The anesthesia may take a few hours to fully wear off.
After the Appointment
Most patients report mild to moderate pain after the procedure. Over the counter pain relievers such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen can be used to manage the discomfort. Some pain relievers also have the ability to reduce swelling, which will help you feel more comfortable. Your oral surgeon may recommend a particular pain reliever based on your specific needs and give you post-procedure instructions to follow.
The Healing Process
The healing time associated with same day dental implants depends on many factors, such as:
• The age of the patient
• The patient’s health history
• Average time the patient takes to recover from cuts and scratches
• Tobacco use, especially cigarette smoking
• Whether the patient has diabetes or another condition affecting circulation
Most patients feel better in just a couple days though some people may take up to a week or more to feel completely recovered.
Schedule a Consultation Today
To learn if you are a good candidate for same day dental implants, please contact us to make an appointment for a consultation. One of our oral surgeons will be happy to help you explore your treatment options. Dental implants are an excellent solution for missing teeth and we want to make your treatment as convenient as possible.