Dental implant placement requires patience. The dentist must pay close attention to where each post will be positioned as well as how far down it must go into the jawbone. The process takes time – a component many patients frequently ask about during pre-operation discussions. With the most common question being “How long will dental implant surgery take,” it’s become apparent that further explanation is required. Keep reading to learn what you can expect when receiving dental implants and how much time you can expect to be off from work.
What is the Average Timeframe for Dental Implant Surgery?
To place a single dental implant, it can take between 1-2 hours. Naturally, if you are having an implant bridge or denture put into place, you’ll require more than one dental implant post. The more you need, the longer you can expect to be in the chair.
Once they are put in place, you’re likely to spend the next 4-6 months recovering. While this doesn’t mean that you’ll have to be at home the entire time, it does mean that you’ll need to abide by specific instructions to keep your mouth healthy and avoid any complications.
Initially, though, you can expect to be away from work for at least a few days. If you are planning to have a more extensive procedure (i.e., implant denture), it’s recommended that you schedule your procedure for later in the week. This allows you to spend the weekend recovering so that you don’t have to miss additional days of work.
Is the Prolonged Recovery Worth It?
In short, yes. Receiving dental implants and completing the process does not happen overnight. Instead, it can take up to a full year to receive your new and improved teeth. While this might be a deterrent, you’ll find that most people who are currently living with dental implants are pleased with their results, believing it to be worth the investment.
Even after your implants have fused with your jawbone, you’ll still need to have your metal abutments installed, which are connector appliances that require a few weeks of additional healing once in place. Only then can you expect to receive your custom restoration.
While it’s natural to desire a smile that can be produced quickly, you’ll find that with dental implants, you’ll be able to enjoy new teeth that last much longer than other quick-fix solutions.
About Grand Dental – Wilmington
At Grand Dental – Wilmington, tooth loss doesn’t have to be the long-term reality for patients. Instead, dental implants can provide a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth and enjoy all that life has to offer. As permanent prosthetics that integrate with the bone tissues, these artificial teeth reach down to the roots and rebuild smiles all the way to the crowns. Visit our website or call (815) 240-8822 to find out how we can help.