Are dental implants painful?
Are dental implants painful?” This question is one that often crosses the minds of individuals considering dental implant procedures. For many, the thought of undergoing oral surgery can be difficult, accompanied by concerns about discomfort and pain. Dental implants, hailed for their ability to restore both function and aesthetics to a smile, are renowned for their durability and natural appearance. However, the apprehension surrounding potential pain during and after the procedure is a common deterrent.
In this blog, we delve into the intricacies of dental implants and list the factors that contribute to any discomfort, the steps taken to minimize pain, and the experiences of those who have undergone this transformative dental treatment.
What happens during dental implant surgery?
Let’s break down the steps to get a sense of what dental implant surgery feels like. Initially, after the extraction of a natural tooth, the area undergoes a bone graft to facilitate the growth of new bone. This reinforces the jawbone and ensures a snug fit for the implant.
During the surgery, the dentist drills into the jawbone and puts in a metal post that acts like a fake tooth root. It takes time for the jawbone to grow around this post, sometimes months, but it’s important for a strong implant. The dentist usually adds the abutment, which holds the dental crown, after the jawbone grows around the post.
Sometimes, the dentist needs to do a small surgery to put in the abutment, but it’s not too bad. It might cause some bleeding and swelling, but it’s usually not as painful as putting in the metal post.
How Painful are Dental Implants?
Dental implant surgery causes some trauma to both the gums and jaw. The dentist numbs the mouth throughout the procedure so patients don’t feel any pain. However, as the numbness wears off, patients may experience some discomfort.
Many dentists prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort after the surgery. Sometimes, over-the-counter pain relievers are enough to handle mild post-surgery pain. Generally, having a single implant causes less discomfort than having multiple implants placed. Patients may experience pain for up to 10 days after the procedure, but it can also resolve sooner.
If patients experience excessive discomfort beyond 10 days, contacting a dental professional is important. Prolonged pain could indicate an infection at the implant site, and prompt action is needed to save the implant.
How to Minimize Pain and Discomfort After Dental Implants
- Follow your dentist's post-operation instructions diligently. This may involve taking prescribed pain medications like Advil or Tylenol, as well as prophylactic antibiotics, as recommended.
- Rinse gently with a warm saltwater solution regularly. This helps to eliminate germs and encourage healing in the implant area.
- Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods during the initial 10 days after surgery to prevent infection and irritation.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing gently near the implant sites to ward off infection and avoid injury.
- Apply cold compresses as directed to help alleviate pain and swelling.
- Keep all follow-up appointments with your dentist as scheduled. This allows for monitoring of healing progress and promptly addressing any concerns that may arise.
Which Type of Dental Implant Causes More Pain?
Endosteal Implants:
Subperiosteal Implants:
Positioned under the gum tissue but above or on the jawbone, these implants are utilized when a patient lacks sufficient natural jawbone and prefers to avoid bone augmentation surgery. Subperiosteal implants are tailored to fit within the jawbone and offer support for artificial teeth.
There isn’t a particular type of dental implant that inherently causes more pain than others. Pain sensitivity varies from person to person, and factors such as individual pain tolerance, procedure complexity, and post-operative care significantly influence the level of discomfort experienced. It’s crucial to discuss pain management strategies and expectations with your dentist before undergoing any dental implant procedure.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the benefits of dental implants in restoring function and aesthetics to your smile often outweigh any temporary discomfort. If you’re considering dental implants, consult with the experts at Glow Up Dentistry in Richmond, TX. Book an appointment today to embark on your journey towards a brighter smile. New patients can call at 832-685-8240, while current patients can reach us at 346-843-8743.