Dental Implants

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Dental Implant Post-Operative Care & Healing

At Shem Creek Dental, we want to ensure that your experience with dental implants is as smooth and successful as possible. Whether you’re getting a dental implant for the first time or completing your restoration with an implant crown, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.

Post-Operative Care After Implant Placement
After your dental implant placement, it's important to follow specific aftercare instructions to promote healing and minimize discomfort. Here’s what you can expect:

• Swelling & Discomfort: It's normal to experience some swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort around the implant site. Applying a cold compress to the area for the first 24-48 hours can help reduce swelling.
   
• Pain Management: We will provide you with pain management instructions, including over-the-counter or prescribed medication, to help keep you comfortable during the initial healing period.
   
• Oral Hygiene: Gently brush your teeth, avoiding the implant site for the first few days. We’ll provide guidance on how to care for your mouth while the implant is healing.
   
• Diet & Activity: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the implant during the initial healing period. We also recommend limiting strenuous physical activities for the first few days.
   

Healing Time
The healing time for dental implants varies from person to person but generally takes 3-6 months. During this period, the implant will undergo a process called osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone. This is crucial for the long-term success of the implant.

• Initial Healing: Immediately after placement, you may need to avoid certain foods and follow specific care guidelines to ensure proper healing.
   
• Bone Integration: As the implant fuses with the bone, it’s important to maintain follow-up appointments so we can monitor the healing progress and make sure the implant is integrating properly.
   

Restoring the Implant with an Implant Crown
Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, we’ll begin the restoration phase. This typically involves placing an implant crown on top of the implant post (or abutment). The restoration process generally includes the following steps:

1. Impression: We’ll take a digital scan of the implant site to create a custom-made implant crown that fits perfectly with your smile.
    
2. Fitting: Once your crown is ready, we will carefully place it onto the implant and ensure it aligns properly with your bite.
    
3. Final Adjustment: After placing the crown, we will make any necessary adjustments to ensure your comfort and functionality. You’ll be able to eat and speak normally, and your new implant crown will blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
    

Ongoing Care & Maintenance
After your implant crown is placed, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the longevity of your dental implant. Continue to brush and floss regularly, and attend your routine check-ups so we can monitor the health of both your implant and surrounding teeth.

If you have any questions during your healing process or about the implant restoration, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to make sure your dental implant experience is as successful and comfortable as possible!

If you are interested in dental implants, let us know! If you are in good general health and have adequate bone, this treatment may be an option for you.