Have you decided to use dental implants as your tooth replacement method? Then you’re not alone. Dental implants have become one of the most popular tooth replacement options available today. Due to the high security and stability, implants function almost identical to natural teeth and even look the part, too. However, since the procedure is quite involved, many patients have a number of questions surrounding the surgery.
Your Columbia, TN dentist, Dr. David Foster, answers a few commonly posed questions about dental implants, in the following blog post.
Commonly Asked Post-Implant Procedure Questions
Q1: Can I drive home?
A1: Your Columbia, TN dentist doesn’t allow any patients to drive home after the surgery is complete. Since the doctor uses both local anesthesia and sedation therapy, you will feel groggy and unaware of your surroundings. Additionally, blurred vision is also another common side effect. The best solution is to find a friend or family member to drive you home after the procedure. However, once the first 24 hour period has expired, you may drive, if you feel comfortable completing that task.
Q2: How much bleeding is normal?
A2: After the surgery, your mouth does bleed at the implantation site. This could continue for up-to 72 hours afterward. To reduce the amount of bleeding, place a piece of gauze over the area and bite down for 20 minutes at a time. Continue to complete these steps until the bleeding stops. If you’re still experiencing bleeding after 72 hours, contact our office as soon as possible.
Q3: When can I eat?
A3: An hour after the surgery, you may remove the gauze and eat something soft. This includes: yogurt, applesauce, and even milkshakes. Yet, take care to avoid the use of a straw and eating hot foods since this can cause any blood clots to dislodge. By following this advice you should have a fairly easy recovery period.
Q4: How long does recovery last?
A4: This is highly dependent upon the patient. An older patient may need as much as six months in order to fully recover and eat with confidence. However, a younger patient may only need three months. Before the surgery, Dr. Foster will discuss recovery times and what to expect during that time period.
Creekside Family Dental Offers Dental Implant Surgery
For more information about dental implants, consult with Dr. Foster. He can walk you through the procedure and to ensure you’re aware of every detail. Additionally, he provides proper aftercare instructions to help you recover with ease. To schedule an appointment your Columbia, TN dentist, call us at (931) 388 – 3384. Also, visit our website for services, patient gallery, and to learn about our team. We welcome patients from Lewisburg, Lewisburg, Hohenwald, Centerville and surrounding cities.
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