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A dental implant procedure is a surgical procedure by which a titanium post or a tooth root replacement is embedded into the jawbone. The implant supports dental prosthetics like crowns, dentures, bridges that improve your appearance and comfort and promote optimum oral health. 

Many patients worry that the dental implant procedure has a complicated and lengthy recovery process and have many questions about it. 

At UniSmile Dental in San Jose, California, Dr. Rita Mitbavkar employs a patient-first approach to offer dental treatments in a caring and gentle environment and always provides patients with complete answers to any questions or concerns they may have.

In this blog, you will find answers to the 5 most common questions about the dental implant recovery process.

What’s the Recovery Time for Dental Implant Surgery?

Recovery time after a dental implant procedure depends on your specific dental condition and the number and location of the implants. For instance, if you need multiple implants in different regions of your jaw, the recovery is likely to take a little longer.

On average, recovery after a dental implant procedure can take between 4 weeks and 6 months. 

Do I Feel Pain After a Dental Implant Procedure?

A dental implant placement procedure only requires a small incision in the gums and is performed while the patient is under anesthesia. Therefore, it is not painful. Dr. Mitbavkar will also prescribe pain management medications after the surgery. 

What Can I Eat After a Dental Implant Procedure?

You should avoid drinking hot liquids and instead drink using a straw the first 24 hours after the surgery. As for food, you should choose something soft for the first day and move on to more solid foods from the second day onwards. 

Avoid consuming any hard foods that could cause pain or hinder the recovery process.

How Long Does the Implant Site Take to Heal?

Typically, the surgical site takes a few weeks to heal. However, the osseointegration process - the process during which the implant fuses with your jawbone, will take several months.

When Can I Return to Work?

You can return to work within a day or two after the implant surgery. Dr. Mitbvkar recommends you don’t exert yourself until the effects of the anesthetic wear off completely.

To learn more about the dental implant recovery process, schedule an appointment with Dr. Mithbavkar at UniSmile Dental by calling (408) 226-1600 for our San Jose office or (408) 732-5300 for our Sunnyvale office. You can also request an appointment online or visit our offices between Monday to Saturday.