If you’ve talked to any dentist about tooth replacement, you’ve probably gathered that dental implants are one of the best ways to make your smile whole again. They’re durable, offer a strong bite, and prevent the bone loss that can often come with missing teeth.
However, some people are so worried about discomfort associated with dental implant surgery that it drives them away from the treatment altogether. Thankfully, there isn’t all that much to worry about when it comes to pain. Here’s why.
Is Dental Implant Surgery Painful?
For some reason, dentistry in general has a reputation for being much more painful than it actually is. The truth is that modern dental anesthetics are shockingly powerful, and that they’re used liberally in most procedures you’re likely to get.
When you get dental implant surgery, the first thing your dentist will do is numb your mouth completely. No surgeon would begin this treatment until they’re sure that you won’t feel anything for the duration of the procedure.
So to answer the question, no; dental implant surgery isn’t painful in the slightest.
What Goes Into Dental Implant Surgery?
Once your mouth is completely numb, the surgeon performing the procedure will open a gap in your gums and jawbone for the titanium post to go into. They’ll then carefully move it into position.
Once the post is in place, they’ll place a cap on it to protect it while it heals. The surgeon may also need to make a stitch or two in your gums to assist in that healing.
After the post heals fully into place, the dentist will place the crown on the metal post and your dental implant will be complete!
Dealing With Discomfort During Aftercare
While the surgery itself won’t involve any pain, it’s common to experience a little bit of discomfort in the weeks afterward. Here are a few things you can do to manage it:
- Take any pain medication prescribed by your doctor. If you weren’t prescribed any, use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed on the bottle.
- Rest up, and avoid strenuous exercise for a day or two after surgery.
- Avoid drinking and smoking.
- Use cold compresses to bring down any swelling.
- Gently brush around the dental implant, and clean the rest of your mouth to stave off decay.
About the Author
From the first time they meet him, his patients can tell that Dr. Tony Nguyen deeply cares about his field. That’s because every time he meets a new patient, he does everything he can to ensure that they can get their ideal smile.
Dr. Nguyen received his degree from the Nova Southeastern College of Dental Medicine, and he completes over 150 hours of continuing education each year. He is currently pursuing Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction only earned by around 6% of dentists in the U.S. and Canada.
If you have any questions about dental implants, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (972) 723-1148.