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When can I return to work after a dental implant procedure?

dental implants DallasDental implants provide a fabulous solution to restore dentition following accidental tooth loss or planned extractions. There are multiple factors that go into the decision on when you may return to work.

Everyone’s Situation is Different

Your overall health and the extent of your procedure can help determine your timetable for returning to work … not all cases are the same. Usually the patient may return to work the next day following the implant procedure, but some situations may require additional time off such as:

How many dental implants were placed? One or two may allow you to resume your normal activities in 24 hours; however, even if only one was placed, you should take as much time as you need to feel well before returning to work.

Was additional preparation required? If insufficient bone required supplementation in the form of bone grafting, you may need more time to rest before returning to work.

The dental implant itself is a small post that is surgically placed in gum tissue where tooth loss occurred. While there might be minor discomfort, an over the counter analgesic is usually sufficient for pain management. After the implant is placed, your implant dentist will issue a set of post operative instructions; it is important to following these steps carefully.

Those instructions begin with planning to rest the remainder of the treatment day. A soft diet is recommended for a few days. Stay hydrated, avoid alcoholic beverages for a few days, and do not smoke or use smokeless tobacco. You are severely risking the success of the implant if you do not follow these instructions.

Maintaining a Healthy Implant 

It is important to keep the implant area clean throughout the healing period. Infection is a leading cause of implant failure; your dentist will explain how to care for the implant to maintain the best oral health possible while you heal.

Even if you feel well enough to return to work the next day, you may wish to take it easy. It is important to stay hydrated as your new, temporary, softer diet may leave you feeling less energetic than normal. In a short time, you will be able to enjoy all your favorite foods and smile broadly as your new teeth will look, feel, and function great.

To learn more about the dental implant process, contact the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan and schedule your consultation today.