Dental Implant Surgery Side Effects: What You Should Know
If you want to replace your missing teeth with dental implants, it is important to know what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Here, Dr. Steven M. Balloch and our Hartford, CT area dental team explore dental implant surgery side effects and offer recommendations on how patients can enjoy a comfortable, successful recovery.
#1: Bleeding
Because dental implant placement is a surgical procedure, it is normal to experience slight bleeding from the treatment area, especially for the first 24 to 48 hours. This is typical, and should not be a cause for concern.
Immediately after your implant surgery, a piece of gauze is typically placed over the site. This should be left in place for about 30 minutes, then removed.
If bleeding is still present, place a new piece of gauze over the site and bite down with gentle, steady pressure for 15 minutes.
If bleeding still persists after this, moisten a tea bag and close down on it for another 15 minutes. The tannic acid in the tea shrinks vessels and capillaries, reducing blood flow.
If symptoms do not subside after trying these recommendations, call our office for further instructions.
#2: Swelling
Most patients notice some degree of swelling or inflammation following dental implant surgery. The gum tissue around the implant may be red and irritated. There may also be slight swelling of the external jaw.
The application of a cold compress every 20 minutes during the first day can reduce these symptoms. Additionally, anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can be beneficial. In most cases, swelling peaks around day three and begins to diminish after that.
#3: Discomfort
Like any surgical treatment, dental implant placement can be accompanied by discomfort, tenderness, or soreness. Fortunately, these side effects can be mitigated by taking over-the-counter pain relievers.
Your doctor may also prescribe medication that can help alleviate discomfort. All medications should be taken as instructed for optimal results.
Another way to minimize discomfort is to abstain from strenuous activity for the first 48 to 72 hours. When the heart rate elevates, the risk of post-surgical bleeding, swelling, and discomfort increases. Therefore, we recommend taking a couple of days off before heading back to the gym.
#4: Bruising
Though less likely than the side effects mentioned above, bruising is still possible following dental implant surgery. Discoloration can occur on the gums around the implant or on the outer cheeks. If bruising should occur, the effects should diminish after a few days.
When to Call the Dentist
The side effects discussed in the sections above are common after implant surgery. However, patients who suffer from persistent bleeding, severe pain, or pus around the surgical site should call a member of our team right away.
Contact Our Practice to Learn More
There are side effects associated with any oral surgery procedure. However, knowing what to anticipate can help patients recover and resume normal life quickly.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment at our practice, call us at (860) 659-8660 or connect with us online.
