Comprehensive Care for Your Dental Implants
Expert Care with Dr. Ali Obeidi
At Elite Dental Specialists, we’re with you every step of the way—before, during, and after your dental implant placement. Once your implants are placed by Dr. Ali Obeidi, a certified prosthodontist, your body begins the process of healing and integration. Understanding what comes next helps ensure a smooth recovery and long-term success.
What Can I Use for Teeth While the Implants Heal?
You don’t have to go without teeth during the healing process. We offer several temporary solutions tailored to your case:
- Removable Temporary Denture or Bridge – Custom-made to fit your healing mouth
- Modified Existing Dentures – For full-arch patients, we may adapt your current dentures
- Transitional Implants & Same-Day Teeth – In many cases, we can place temporary fixed teeth the same day
- Teeth-in-a-Day – For qualified patients, your permanent smile may begin immediately after surgery
Our goal is to keep you smiling and confident—even while you heal.
Will It Hurt After Implant Surgery?
Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable the recovery is. Dr. Obeidi uses minimally invasive techniques and offers sedation dentistry for a smooth experience. You’ll be provided with:
- Prescription pain medication and antibiotics as needed
- Guidance on managing swelling or discomfort
- Instructions for returning to normal routines
Minor swelling or soreness is normal, but severe or persistent symptoms should be reported right away.
Are There Risks or Complications?
While complications are rare, some risks may include:
- Infection – Controlled with proper hygiene and antibiotics
- Temporary Nerve Sensitivity – Tingling or numbness may occur if a nerve is irritated during placement
- Implant Failure or Loosening – Rare, but retreatment is possible if needed
- Adjacent Tooth Sensitivity – Occasionally a nearby tooth may feel sensitive following surgery
At Elite Dental Specialists, we use 3D CBCT imaging and guided implant surgery to avoid complications and deliver the safest, most predictable outcomes.
When Will My Permanent Teeth Be Placed?
Once the implant fuses securely to your jawbone (a process called osseointegration), we’ll begin crafting your final restoration.
- For some, this can happen same-day or within a few weeks
- Others may require 3–6 months of healing depending on bone health or grafting
- Your exact timeline will be personalized and reviewed during your consultation
We’ll keep you informed every step of the way—your final teeth will be worth the wait.
What Happens During the Restoration Process?
Once healing is complete, we’ll take precise digital impressions of your mouth and bite. These will guide the creation of:
- Abutments (support posts that connect the implant to your final teeth)
- Crowns, bridges, or full-arch prosthetics (crafted from zirconia or tooth-colored materials)
Some abutments are prefabricated, while others are custom-made depending on your case.
The number of visits depends on your treatment type:
- Single implants: As few as 3 appointments
- Snap-On Dentures: 4–5 visits for adjustments, fittings & attachments
- Full Arch Implants: 4–6 appointments depending on lab work
We value your time and will create a schedule that’s efficient and tailored to you.
How Do I Care for My New Implants?
Just like natural teeth, your new smile requires consistent care:
- Brush 2x daily with a soft-bristled brush
- Floss or use interdental brushes as recommended
- Attend regular dental cleanings and implant checkups (every 3–6 months)
- Avoid using teeth as tools or biting hard objects (ice, fingernails, etc.)
Implants are durable—but they need maintenance, just like a car or home. Over time, small components may require tightening or replacement.
How Much Does Post-Implant Care Cost?
The restorative phase and any custom abutments, bridges, or prosthetics are discussed during your consultation. We’ll provide:
- A transparent, itemized treatment plan
- Clear timelines for each phase
- Financing options starting at $65/month
- PPO insurance coordination to maximize your benefits
Hear From Our Happy Patients
Discover the Impact of
Dr. Obeidi's Care
Schedule Your Post-Implant Checkup or Consultation
Whether you’re already healing from implant placement or preparing for the next phase, we’re here to guide you toward the finish line—a permanent, healthy smile.
SMILE WITH CONFIDENCE. LIVE WITHOUT LIMITS.
FAQ
1. How long does it take to fully heal after dental implant surgery?
Healing varies by patient, but most people complete the osseointegration process in 3–6 months. Minor soreness or swelling typically subsides within a few days. Full-arch cases or patients who needed bone grafting may require additional time. Dr. Obeidi provides personalized timelines based on your bone health and treatment plan.
2. What can I eat after dental implant surgery?
You’ll begin with a soft food diet for the first few days–weeks, depending on the number of implants and the stability of your temporary teeth. Foods like yogurt, eggs, pasta, smoothies, soups, and mashed vegetables are ideal. As healing progresses, you’ll gradually return to normal eating. Full-arch patients often return to a regular diet once their final prosthesis is placed.
3. How do I clean and care for my mouth while my implants heal?
Good hygiene is essential for implant success. During healing, you’ll be advised to:
-
Brush gently around the surgical sites
-
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
-
Rinse with warm salt water
-
Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash unless directed
-
Keep removable dentures or temps clean
Dr. Obeidi will provide personalized instructions based on your temporary restoration and the number of implants placed.
4. Is swelling or bleeding normal after implant surgery?
Yes. Mild swelling, bruising, and small amounts of bleeding during the first 24–48 hours are completely normal. Swelling typically peaks on day two and gradually decreases. If bleeding seems excessive or lasts longer than expected, contact our Houston office right away so we can evaluate the area.
5. When can I go back to work after getting dental implants?
Most patients return to work the next day—especially for single implants. Full-arch implant patients or those under IV sedation may prefer taking 1–2 days off. Dr. Obeidi can provide a tailored recommendation based on the complexity of your surgery.
6. Can my temporary teeth break or come loose while healing?
Temporary teeth are designed to be durable but not as strong as your final restorations. Eating overly hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can cause them to crack or loosen. If an issue occurs, contact us and we’ll repair or replace the temporary as soon as possible so you can continue healing comfortably.
7. What are signs that something might be wrong with my implant?
While complications are rare, contact our office immediately if you experience:
-
Increasing pain after the first few days
-
Persistent swelling or pus
-
Movement or looseness in the implant
-
Fever or unusual discharge
-
Severe nerve-like tingling that does not improve
Early intervention keeps your treatment on track and helps protect your long-term results.