Dental implants can be a permanent solution to missing teeth for many people. Unfortunately, the concerns about recovery time have left some people unwilling to consider the implants. If you are thinking of getting implants, it is important you understand the possible recovery time and what you can do to shorten it. 

How Long Does It Take to Recovery?

The recovery time from implants can vary based on a number of factors, including how strong your jawbone is. The average recovery time is two to four months in ideal conditions. However, this time can be extended by different factors, such as smoking and drinking alcohol.

What Can You Do to Shorten the Recovery?

One of the most important things you can do to encourage healing is to take good care of your natural teeth and the implants. Bacteria left behind from poor dental hygiene can impede not only the recovery from the surgery, but also lead to an infection. Caring for your implants is not difficult. If you continue to brush and floss on a regular basis, you can get rid of harmful bacteria. Your surgeon might also recommend you use a prescription strength mouthwash for a period of time after the surgery. 

Another important way you can avoid an extended recovery period is to avoid any activity that could place pressure on your implants or damage them. This means avoiding hard foods and chewing ice. Stick to eating soft to moderate textured food. The wrong foods can cause your implants to become dislodged due to the jawbone not being completely healed. 

Following the surgery, you could experience swelling and bruising that can take a toll on your emotional and physical well-being. To avoid this, use cold compresses on the outside of your face periodically throughout the day. The cold compresses reduces swelling, which makes it more bearable. 

Smoking and other tobacco products can have an impact on how well your bone heals. It can actually slow your progress and increase the odds that your implants will fail. To avoid this problem, stop smoking. Talk to your surgeon about how long you should wait before you can start smoking again, if desired. 

Your surgeon can provide you with other helpful tips to shorten your recovery time. Be careful to follow your surgeon's recommendations and talk to him or her about any concerns to keep your recovery on track. For more information, contact a practice like Elma Family Dental.