Is Swelling Normal After Dental Implant Surgery?

Dental implants have revolutionized restorative dentistry, offering patients a lifelike solution for tooth restoration. Dr. Stella Oh, a dual-trained prosthodontist at Madison Avenue Dentists in New York, NY, specializes in providing advanced dental implant surgery to restore smiles. While dental implant surgery is remarkably effective, patients may experience minor side effects post-surgery, including swelling.

When is dental implant surgery necessary?

Dental implant surgery becomes necessary when a patient is missing one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or other dental issues. Implants offer a long-term solution that looks and functions like natural teeth. Dr. Oh evaluates each patient's situation to determine if dental implant surgery is the best course of action.

How is dental implant surgery performed?

A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone during dental implant surgery, acting as a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth or teeth. This process typically requires multiple appointments and thorough planning to ensure the procedure's success. While the surgery may sound daunting, advancements in modern dentistry, particularly in the hands of skilled professionals like Dr. Oh, have made it a routine and minimally invasive procedure.

What to expect after dental implant surgery

Patients may experience swelling, discomfort, and bruising following dental implant surgery. Swelling, in particular, is a common side effect and usually peaks within the first 48 hours before gradually subsiding. Patients can manage swelling with cold compresses and prescribed medications as directed by Dr. Oh and her team.

Is swelling normal after dental implant surgery?

Yes, swelling is a normal response to dental implant surgery. It is the body's natural reaction to the trauma of surgery and typically resolves on its own within a few days to a week. However, patients should promptly contact their dental provider for further evaluation if swelling persists or worsens over time.

Aftercare instructions

To facilitate proper healing and minimize discomfort, Dr. Oh and her team may recommend specific aftercare instructions. These may include:

• Applying ice packs to reduce swelling
• Taking prescribed pain medication as needed
• Avoiding strenuous physical activity
• Following a soft food diet
• Practicing good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing and rinsing with a prescribed mouthwash

Schedule a consultation for dental implants in New York

While swelling and other minor side effects may occur after dental implant surgery, the benefits far outweigh the temporary discomfort. Dental implants provide patients with a solution for missing teeth, restoring confidence and functionality to their smiles. If you're considering dental implant surgery or seeking restorative dentistry in New York, NY, trust Dr. Stella Oh and her experienced team at Madison Avenue Dentists. With their wealth of knowledge and commitment to utilizing the latest advancements in modern dental technology, including dental implants, your dental health is in capable hands. Schedule a consultation today to discover how dental implants can transform your smile and improve your quality of life.