What to Expect During and After Dental Implant Surgery

Full-arch dental implants can transform your smile and restore your quality of life. Many patients who need these appliances feel uncertain about the prospect of implant surgery, but oral surgeons perform these procedures with great care and high success rates.

This blog thoroughly explains what to expect from the full-arch dental implant process from the initial consultation to the post-surgical recovery period.

Benefits of Full-arch Dental Implants

Restore Your Smile's Natural Appearance

Your oral surgeon crafts your full-arch implants individually for a healthy, attractive appearance.

Better Speech and Chewing

Conventional dentures may slip and click, causing distracting sounds and interfering with clear speech. They can also make it difficult for patients to chew and enjoy a balanced diet. Full-arch implants allow patients to eat what they like without worry and do not affect their speech.

Improved Oral Health

Traditional dentures sometimes compromise the jawbone's integrity, particularly along the alveolar ridge. Since the bone does not receive chewing stimulation, it may break down and cause poorly fitting dentures. Full-arch implants promote a robust jawbone and support oral health.

The Full-arch Dental Implant Process

Preparation for Surgery

The first step on the path to a healthy, complete smile is a consultation with your oral surgeon. During this appointment, your surgeon will assess your needs, expectations, and candidacy for the procedure.

Your oral surgeon will take extensive digital images using a CBCT scanner. This scanner uses a highly focused X-ray beam to create a 3-D image of your oral anatomy.

If your jawbone needs more structure, your surgeon can perform a bone graft procedure to improve its strength before proceeding.

During Your Implant Surgery

Many patients feel intimidated by dental implant surgery. These patients often report afterward that the procedure was much easier and more comfortable than they expected.

Step 1: Extractions

If necessary, your oral surgeon will extract any natural teeth that are present. In many cases, Dr. Braasch can extract teeth and perform implant surgery at the same time, but this varies depending on your circumstances.

Step 2: Inserting the Implant Anchors

Dr. Braasch makes a small opening in the gum to expose the jawbone and then uses a specialized tool to prepare the bone for the implant anchor. Implant anchors are made of biocompatible titanium, which bonds with the jaw and provides a rock-solid base for your new teeth.

Step 3: Healing

Dr. Braasch closes the gum over the anchors and allows the area to heal. You will receive a temporary denture to wear while the implants heal. The doctor will verify healing using scans and impressions.

Step 4: Final Placement

After healing is complete, you will receive your final prosthesis. You may experience some soreness and tenderness after the procedure, but it should pass quickly as your mouth becomes accustomed to the implants.

After Implant Surgery

You may experience swelling and discomfort after surgery. These symptoms are common and should pass within a week or two. Minor bleeding for up to 24 hours is expected, but consult your surgeon if it persists longer or becomes heavier.

Tips for Successful Healing

• For the first few months after your surgery, eat a soft diet that does not require chewing. Avoid hot food and liquids during this time. Your surgeon will let you know when you can start incorporating firmer foods. Ensure that you consume enough calories and drink enough water to stay healthy.
• Use cold compresses for pain and swelling, and elevate your head as you rest.

Frequently Asked Questions About Full-Arch Dental Implants

Who is a good candidate for full-arch dental implants?

The best candidates are patients with many compromised or missing teeth. They should also have healthy gums and a healthy jawbone. If jawbone volume needs improvement, they can undergo a bone graft procedure.

Why should I see an oral surgeon for full-arch dental implants?

Oral surgeons understand more about facial anatomy than general dentists. They undergo more training and have more experience placing dental implants. An oral surgeon uses advanced techniques and technology to maximize implant success.

Contact Braasch OMS

If you want to learn more about full-arch dental implants and how they can benefit you, please contact our Bedford, NH, office. We look forward to meeting you and helping you start your implant journey!