Dental Implant Removal Recovery Time

Are you considering dental implant surgery or perhaps wondering what happens if an implant needs to be removed? Dental implants are known for their high success rate, but there are instances where removal becomes necessary. In this article, we will explore why dental implants are removed, the process involved, and what you can expect during the recovery period.

Why Are Dental Implants Removed?

It’s natural to wonder why a supposedly permanent dental implant may need to be removed. There are a few reasons why this might happen. For instance, if you have a weak jawbone, smoke tobacco, or fail to adequately care for the implant, it can become infected. Other medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, could also contribute to the need for removal. The primary purpose of removing the implant is to prevent the spread of infection and the loss of surrounding bone.

The Removal Process Explained

During the removal process, the strength of the bond between the implant and your jawbone will determine the extent of tissue and bone removal. The surgeon will use a specialized tool to carefully cut a small portion of the bone, allowing them to loosen and extract the implant. Rest assured, this procedure is painless as you will be under local anesthesia and dental sedation.

Recovery After Dental Implant Removal

After the infected implant has been removed, there is still hope for a replacement. Your dental implant surgeon in Los Angeles will consider replacing the implant if it is deemed a suitable solution. To support a new implant in the future, the surgeon will apply a bone graft over the area where the previous implant was located. Here’s what you can expect during the recovery period:

Swelling, Tenderness & Soreness

Following the removal procedure, you may experience swelling and tenderness in the gums surrounding the implant area. Rest assured, this is perfectly normal and will subside in the days following the procedure. Your dental provider may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter alternatives to manage any discomfort.

Soft Foods Only

Due to tenderness in the area, you will need to stick to soft foods until you are comfortable biting down on harder textures. Consider stocking up on mashed potatoes, yogurt, cottage cheese, and other gentle options before your surgery.

Antibiotics Treatment

In cases where the implant was removed due to infection, your surgeon will prescribe antibiotics to minimize and eliminate the infection. It is crucial that you take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if you feel the infection is gone. By completing the treatment, you ensure the eradication of all infectious bacteria and reduce the risk of further complications.

Follow-Up Appointments

After the procedure, it is essential to schedule a follow-up visit with your surgeon. This allows them to assess your recovery progress, ensuring that you are healing properly and without any complications.

Dental implant removal is not as daunting as it may seem. With the use of local anesthesia and dental sedation, the process is painless. Additionally, the recovery period is relatively straightforward. Armed with this knowledge, you can better prepare yourself for the procedure and the subsequent healing process.

For more information on dental health and procedures, visit Make You Smile.