How Long Do Tooth Implants Take To Heal: comprehensive guide
Introduction to Tooth Implants
Tooth Implant is the latest procedure to replace missing tooth. It consist of titanium post that is fixed on the jawbone, abutment that provides connection and artificial crown which resemble like real tooth.
Understanding healing time
After the surgery is performed, healing time is one of the most important aspect that has impact on overall Procedure. Understanding healing time is very important for both patient and doctor. It is very important to take necessary precautions For smooth healing.
Phases of healing
Different phases of healing are discussed below.
Initial phase of healing
Formation of blood clot
After the tooth implant surgery is completed, blood clot is formed around the surgical area. This blood clot acts as barrier, that protects the site of surgery.
Bone integration
Osseointegration is a process in which jawbone is fused with the implanted tooth, this process take several weeks. Stability and success of implant depends on this procedure.
Osseointegration phase
In this phase jawbone is fused with the implanted tooth, as discussed above.
Healing of soft tissues
Soft tissue healing is done along with osseointegration process. The normal appearance of the jaw and gums of the surgical site indicates healing of soft tissues.
Final restoration stage
In this final stage, the artificial crown is placed on the abutment. This is done after healing of soft tissues and abutment is attached to the implant. After this phase complete functional and pleasing tooth is ready.
Factors Influencing Time of Healing
There are many factors, that effect the time of healing. Some of them are discussed below.
Overall health
Healing time is greatly effected by the health condition of the patient. Proper management, adequate nutrition and strong immunity level is responsible for the overall health condition of the patient.
Placement of implanted tooth
Location of the implanted tooth effects the time of healing. For example, if molar tooth is implanted then it will take little longer time to heal. Because usage of molar teeth is more as compared to other teeth during eating. Perhaps it will delay process of healing.
Bone density
Density of the jawbone at the site of implantation effects greatly the time of healing. Jawbone with good bone density and quality allows quick healing and strong fusion of bones.
Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol consumption adversely effect the time of healing. Nicotine lowers the flow of oxygen towards the surgical site. This will hinder the proper process of healing and lead to complications. So, smoking and consumption of alcohol during healing process.
Oral cavity hygiene care
Hygiene level of the oral cavity directly effect the time of healing. If the hygienic measures are followed, it will allow quick and infection free healing. If oral cavity is kept unhygienic, it can cause infection which will lead to poor healing process.
Maintenance during healing process
It is very important to follow the directions of doctors during post operative care. Although, this will help you in quick recovery. Some of the key points are given below.
Post operative guidelines
Every doctor provide basic guidelines to his patients after completion of surgery. It is very important for the patient to follow that guidelines, as these will help in quick healthy recovery.
Regular checkups
Routine checkups are very important to maintain healthy recovery. Doctor always prefer regular checkup to keep an eye on recovery process. This will lead doctor to guide patient through out the healing process, until fully recovered.
Healthy Diet consideration
Development of healthy diet routine will ensure maintained recovery of implanted tooth. Eating healthy fruits and vegetables are always recommended by the doctor. In early recovery days, it is important to avoid hard and sharp foods, that can effect newly screwed dental implant.
Oral hygienic routine
Oral hygienic routine is the key factor in the healing process of implanted tooth. Regular brushing and flossing will help to keep your oral cavity hygienic. Beware while flossing, direct contact with the implanted tooth can cause damage. It is preferred to use interdental brush or water flosser to clean that specific area.
Warning signs during healing time
Important risk factors and warning signs, that can effect healing time of tooth implant are briefly discussed below.
Infection risks
Infection can occur in any surgical procedure. Little mistake can cause infection in the gums or jawbone. It is very important to keep an eye on surgical area. If Any swelling, redness or pain is noticed patient should go for checkup. That is why regular checkups are recommended to avoid such things.
Implant Failure signs
During healing process, if you feel any mobility, discomfort or changes in the color of gums these are the signs of implant failure. Although, tooth implant Failure are very rare. But these can happen due to negligence of patient. To avoid such happening, follow the guidelines given by the dentist.
Emergency Visit to Doctor
Emergency visit to doctor is done, when the condition of Implant is not good. Some of the points are listed below.
- When there is no pain relief, even after taking pain killers.
- When there is excessive bleeding.
- Redness and discharge around the surgical are for long time.
- If any sign of infection appear visit doctor.
Conclusion
Healing process after tooth implant includes several important points.
- Blood clot formation around the implanted tooth.
- Osseointegration, the bone fusion process that give stability to the implanted tooth.
- Healing of soft tissues
- Crowning of artificial tooth on the implanted tooth.
Some of the factors that effect time of healing like, Healthy diet, oral Hygienic measure, avoid sugary material, avoid acidic food, avoid smoking, avoid alcoholic consumption etc.
Tooth implant healing is a time taking process and it need patience. During this regular appointments are very important for proper healing. If any pain, discomfort, swelling or bleeding is noticed, doctor should be consulted immediately. There are very rare chances of implant failure, but it is important to keep an eye on site until it is completed healed.