16 Oct When can I return to work after a dental implant procedure?
When facing any dental treatment, such as dental implant placement, patients often ask when they’ll be able to resume their normal routines, including their typical work schedule. Unfortunately, there’s not one single answer to this question. A number of factors come into play, but on average, most patients are able to return to work within a few days of getting their dental implants. Some patients may recover more quickly, while others need more time to return to normal.
Of course, dental implant placement necessitates a surgical procedure, so some recovery time should be anticipated. Fortunately, this period is likely to be brief. It can be tempting to try to push yourself during this time period, but doing so can lead to setbacks.
Our dentist will thoroughly review your case before planning the implant placement procedure. Chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, can affect the healing process, as can lifestyle habits such as smoking. Your provider will help to manage your expectations for recovery based on these factors.
Our dentist also will give you thorough post-operative instructions before the procedure, and the more closely you follow these instructions, the less likely it is that you’ll develop complications that can keep you out of the workplace longer than you’d like.
Keep in mind that it takes four to six months for the osseointegration process, in which the bone fuses with the dental implants, to be complete. Therefore you may need to alter some aspects of your routine to accommodate this process, too. For example, you may be instructed to stick to a diet of softer foods for a few weeks after implant placement. Ask your provider for specific instructions related to your case.
In many cases, patients can resume their normal routines within a few days of getting their dental implants. Be an active participant in your treatment and ask what steps you can take to increase your chances of getting back on your feet as soon as possible. Make sure that you thoroughly understand all instructions related to dental implant placement, and don’t hesitate to ask about anything that is unclear to you.
To discuss your own implant treatment plan, call our office today to start this process!