Are you planning on having dental implants after a tooth extraction? If so, that’s an exciting step to take for your oral and overall well being. There are a range of replacement options, but dental implants in Jacksonville offer a host of benefits – like better jaw health, clearer speech, and improved nutrition.
While dental implants are far and away the best choice post-extraction, you will need to wait a bit after the initial procedure until you can get started with the implantation. Keep reading to learn why this step is required and how long you can expect to wait.
Tooth Extraction Process
A tooth extraction is just what it sounds like – completely removing a tooth that can no longer be saved. It is a major oral surgery that is performed at the dentist’s office.
To remove a tooth, your dentist will need to administer local anesthesia to remove any sensation at the extraction site. Sedation is also available for your complete comfort.
Once you are relaxed and comfortable in the dental chair, your dentist will begin. The process for removing the tooth will depend on a few factors, including its location, whether or not it is impacted (not fully erupting from the gum line), and how infected or decayed it is. They may need to remove the tooth in pieces, or they may be able to take it out all at once with a little wiggling back and forth.
How Long You Can Expect to Wait for Replacement
No matter the method used for removing your tooth, you will need to wait a certain amount of time before you can get started with your dental implant(s). Most people must wait a minimum of 10 weeks after the extraction. During this time, the jaw bone and gum heal, allowing you to undergo a second oral procedure – this time, dental implant placement.
How to Prepare for Dental Implants
While you are waiting for your dental implant procedure, there are a few things you can do to prepare. You may have already done a few of them while getting ready for your tooth extraction. They include:
- Stocking your fridge with liquid and soft foods that you can consume in the first few days after the dental implant placement, when your jaw will be sore. You will be instructed not to bite down on anything hard, sticky, or chewy at all. Soups, soft breads, fruit, and steamed vegetables are all optimal choices during this time.
- Plan to have someone drive you to and from the dentist’s office on the day of the implant placement. It can take some time for the sedation used to fully wear off.
- Be sure to take all medicines prescribed to you before the procedure, and get any prescriptions for after filled in advance of the surgery.
Even though you will have to wait a little bit to get started on your dental implants, you have a lot to look forward to with this excellent tooth replacement! Use that time to prepare and you’ll be back on your feet and enjoying your new, healthy smile in no time.
Meet the Dentist
Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen is led by two passionate, experienced dentists who are changing the world – one smile at a time. Dr. Richard Mullens or Dr. James Nguyen work together to offer a host of treatments for patients of all ages, including dental implants following tooth extraction. To learn more or to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Jacksonville, contact their office at (904) 399-3163.