At AZ Max Oral Surgery, we are committed to providing our patients with the most advanced treatments that will lead to successful oral health outcomes. One of these treatments is dental implants, which can replace a single missing tooth or multiple teeth at once. 

Getting a dental implant requires four stages of healing after the surgery is complete. It’s important to understand each stage and what to expect throughout the healing process to ensure optimal results after the implant is placed. 

Stage 1: Surgical Healing

The dental implant surgery itself involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone. Your surgeon will make a small incision in your gums to gain access to the bone and place the post. Once the implant is in place, the incision will be closed with stitches. 

In the days following surgery, you can expect swelling and minor bleeding. Swelling is the body’s natural response to surgery and can last a few days up to a few weeks. To decrease swelling in the first 48 hours, apply ice packs to the outside of your face for 20 minutes on, and 20 minutes off. Keep your head elevated for the first three days, and limit speaking and chewing. 

If bleeding occurs, keep your head elevated and bite on a gauze pad placed directly over the surgical site for 30-45 minutes. If bleeding continues, change the gauze pad and bite down for an additional 45 minutes. 

Your sutures are dissolvable and will remain for five to seven days. Do not touch your sutures or try to cut them. 

Avoid brushing or flossing around the surgery site for seven days. You should continue brushing and flossing your teeth but be careful to avoid the area of implantation. Starting the day after surgery, gently rinse your mouth with salt-water rinses after every meal and before bedtime. 

Do not smoke. Smoking puts you at risk of developing peri-implantitis, a bacterial infection that can lead to implant failure. Implants fail at a higher rate in smokers, so it’s important to quit smoking during the entire healing process. 

Stage 2: Osseointegration

The second stage of healing is the osseointegration process, where the jawbone and titanium post fuse together to form a secure bond. This process can take anywhere from three to six months to complete. 

Once the gum tissue heals, you can return to a regular diet. However, you should avoid placing too much pressure or strain on the implant site. If antibiotics were prescribed, take them as directed and finish the entire course of medication. Your surgeon may also prescribe an antibacterial mouthwash. Use the mouthwash as directed and finish the entire bottle. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is extremely important to the success of your implant. Continue brushing and flossing twice a day and use mouthwash to reduce bacteria levels in your mouth. Make sure to attend all of your follow-up appointments with the surgeon and continue a regular schedule of dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist.  

Stage 3: Restoration Placement

Once your implant has fully healed, the restoration placement stage can begin. This stage requires a second surgical procedure to uncover the implant and place the abutment. The abutment is an extension that attaches to the top of the post and will hold the restoration in place. You may be fitted with a temporary restoration on the same day as your abutment placement.

An impression will be taken of your teeth to create your restoration. The type of restoration will depend on your needs and can be a crown, bridge, or denture. The restoration will take a few weeks to be created in a laboratory. Once it is ready, you will return to the office for its placement. 

Stage 4: Final Restoration

The last step of the dental implant process is the final restoration stage. When your permanent restoration is ready, the dentist will attach it to the abutment and ensure it fits properly. Once you are satisfied with the fit, the restoration is secured in place, and your implant is complete. 

Dental Implants Mesa, AZ

The dental implant procedure is a long process, but it can provide lasting results for years. At AZ Max Oral Surgery strives to provide our patients with the highest quality of care before, during, and after their procedure. 

If you’re considering dental implant surgery, contact us today to schedule an appointment! Our experienced team is here to provide the personalized care you need for a successful dental implant procedure. 

Contact us today to learn more about our dental implant services and how they can benefit you. Call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online booking form

  • For dental implants in Tempe, AZ, and North Mesa, AZ schedule an appointment with Dr. R.Brinks Austin.
  • For dental implants in Mesa, schedule an appointment with Dr. Brent Boyse
  • For dental implants Queen Creek, AZ, or Mesa, AZ, schedule an appointment with Dr. Greg Romney
  • For dental implants Queen Creek, North Mesa, or Show Low, schedule an appointment with Dr. Blake Porter or Dr. DJ Lemieux

If you are looking for an oral surgeon near me, or dental implants Mesa, AZ, visit AZ Max to see why we are the best dental implant specialist in Mesa, AZ.