If you have missing teeth that you need to replace, you might be wondering what your options are for replacing them. When it comes to replacing lost teeth, implant dentures are one of the best options available, as they’re able to effectively restore the look and functionality of your smile. However, you might have questions about the implant denture process, including specifics about the recovery period. Keep reading to learn more about how these implants work and what you can expect as you recuperate.
How Implant Dentures Work
Implant-supported dentures are just one example of how dental technology continues to innovate and improve the way that teeth are replaced. While traditional dental implants are surgically inserted into your jawbone through the gums, implant dentures work a little differently since they also utilize special load-bearing dentures. These dentures are attached to your implants on the very same day they’re implanted, where they provide a strong, interlocking connection between your dentures and your jawbone.
Recovering from Implant Denture Surgery
However, just because they function a little differently than traditional dentures, it doesn’t mean the recovery process is necessarily easier—but it is much shorter! Unlike traditional dentures which may take up to 8 months of recovery and up to a year of adjustment time, implant dentures don’t take as long to heal; in fact, most patients can return to their normal daily routines in as little as a few days after receiving implant dentures, as one of the immediate benefits they come with is instant stability.
That said, it’s important to note that you won’t be able to withstand the full force of biting and chewing until the implants have fully fused with your jawbone, which can take anywhere from three to six months. Your dentist will also instruct you to follow a liquid and soft-foods diet for the first three months immediately following the procedure. This part of the recovery process is vital, as your implants are still integrating with your jaw and chewing hard or crunchy foods will disrupt and prevent your mouth from healing properly!
Your dentist will also recommend that you take a few days off of work to rest and recover, and if your job is physically taxing, you might need to take an additional day or two off. Intense physical activity can divert blood away from your surgical sites, which will only delay healing. That said, you should also avoid exercising and heavy lifting until your mouth has had the chance to heal.
You will also want to practice good oral hygiene moving forward, as long as you’re gentle, to ensure a clean and healthy mouth that can easily support your implants. And lastly, it’s imperative that you refrain from poor oral habits like smoking—this will only prolong the healing process! Dental implants can completely change your life for the better, but only if they’re given the chance to do their job.
About the Practice
Baldwin Family Dental is pleased to serve patients and families in Panama City under the leadership of Dr. A. Faris Waheed, Dr. Amanda M. Panousis, and Dr. Alan Diep. Their practice is pleased to offer a wide range of services including implant-supported dentures. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone: (850) 215-0128.