Whether you're getting a single tooth replaced or multiple dental implants to improve your oral health, these tips can help you bounce back quickly and smoothly, with the expertise of the Dental Implants West Kendall team.

First 48 Hours

After your surgery, you'll leave our office with some gauze covering the surgical area. Leave it in for about half an hour, and then take it out.

If bleeding has slowed down, there's no need for more gauze. But if it's still bleeding, place fresh gauze and gently bite down for another 15 minutes.

A little oozing is normal for the first day or two. However, if bleeding is heavy, you can use a moistened tea bag to help reduce it. Tea has something called tannic acid that helps stop bleeding by constricting blood vessels. If bleeding persists, give us a call for guidance.

If you're feeling tender, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. Dr. Couvelis might have also prescribed medications for you; make sure to follow the instructions.

To reduce swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your jaw for 20 minutes at a time during the first day.

Try to avoid strenuous activities for at least 48 hours. Increased heart rate can lead to more bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Stick to soft foods for your diet.

First Week

Most patients start feeling better with less discomfort and swelling around day three or four after the surgery. If you have dissolvable stitches, they'll likely start coming out in the first week.

You can gradually reduce the use of over-the-counter meds as needed. Some might need them for a week, depending on the extent of the procedure. The team at Dental Implants West Kendall schedules your first follow-up appointment around seven to ten days after your surgery. After the first week, most patients can go back to their regular eating habits.

Full Healing Timeline

Dental implants usually need a few months to heal before we can attach the final restoration. Even though you'll feel comfortable in a few days, your jawbone will continue to heal over several weeks. During this time, the bone will fuse with the implant, a process called osseointegration.

Healing times can vary, but on average it takes about three to four months. If you had any preparatory procedures like bone grafts or sinus lifts, it might take a bit longer.

Throughout this healing phase, it's essential to maintain your oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing will keep your teeth and gums healthy, ensuring a smooth recovery.

Reach Out to Us

If you have any questions about your upcoming dental implant surgery, our team is here to help. To learn more about the recovery process after dental implant placement, you can reach Dental Implants West Kendall online just by visiting us. We're here to assist you every step of the way.