When Can I Go Back to Work After Getting Dental Implants?

It takes several appointments to have dental implants replaced and restored. Naturally, you’ll want to be able to maintain your normal routine as much as possible, which means you’ll probably be worried about how much time you’ll need to recover after each step. In particular, how long will you have to wait to return to work after dental implant surgery? The answer to that can vary, but luckily your dentist can help you understand the different factors involved and what to expect.

What Can Affect Implant Recovery Time?

It needs to be noted that some dental implant procedures are more complex than others, and that can affect the amount of time that you’ll need to allow for healing. You’ll need to take into account:

• The Number of Implants: Healing after receiving just one or two implants tends to be much shorter, which means you’ll be ready to head back to work all the sooner. If more implants are used, it may end up adding an extra day or two to the recovery process.
• Bon Grafting: Sometimes extra bone tissue needs to be added to the implant site so that the jaw can support the posts. A minor bone graft won’t change the implant treatment timeline very much, but if you need a more complex treatment, it may increase the amount of time you need to recover.
• Compliance to Post-Op Instructions: You’ll be given instructions for taking care of your implants and the rest of your mouth following the surgery. By following these instructions, you can keep the recovery process on track so that you can return to work all the sooner.

So How Long Will Recovery Take?

The good news is that recovery after implant surgery doesn’t usually take very long. Many people are able to go back to work the very next day, and very few need more than two days to return to their normal routine. That said, the complexity of the procedure, your body’s healing capabilities, and any unforeseen complications could extend recovery time; your dentist will discuss these factors with you during your initial consultation.

What Can You Expect During Implant Recovery?

You’ll notice some discomfort, but it won’t be anything that you can’t manage without pain medication. Your dentist will instruct you not to overexert yourself, as intense physical activity could exacerbate swelling and bleeding. Also, you’ll need to only eat soft foods until your mouth has sufficiently healed. You can start working your way back to eating solid foods once you feel comfortable doing so.

By taking your dentist’s recommendations to heart and being aware of how you’re taking care of your mouth, you can make sure that the recovery process after implant surgery has a minimal impact on your ability to go to work and complete everyday tasks.

About the Author

Dr. Jacob Milner earned his dental degree at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He has earned fellowship with Implant Pathway, a training program in implant dentistry. He loves creating brilliant smiles, and he’s proud to be able to offer his patients the convenience of having the entire dental implant process done in one location. If you have questions about the recovery process after dental implant surgery, reach out to Dr. Milner at Dolfield Dental of Owings Mills by visiting his website or calling (410) 902-4110.