Are Dental Implants Painful?

If you have recently lost a tooth, you need to look at tooth replacement options. Without a replacement, you could risk losing more teeth or experiencing bone deterioration in your jaw. For many people, longevity and convenience are high priorities for tooth replacements. One option that can meet all of your needs is a dental implant. 

A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root made of titanium. What sets dental implants apart from other tooth replacements is that your dentist will surgically implant the device. Typically, the process of getting a dental implant consists of three parts: implantation of the abutment, the post, and the crown. After each stage, you have to wait for your jaw and gums to heal completely before you can move to the next stage. This can take several weeks to months. 

While the process is long, many patients feel that the recovery is worth it. Because the process involves several surgeries, you may wonder: are dental implants painful?

Is There Pain?

Naturally, many people are fearful or anxious about experiencing pain. In fact, it is one of the main reasons why people avoid going to the dentist. However, you won’t feel any pain during your surgeries. Before your dentist begins the procedure, they will be sure to numb the area completely with a local anesthetic. As a result, you may feel pressure, but you shouldn’t feel any pain. Additionally, your dentist may put you under general anesthesia, which means that you won’t be awake during the surgery. 

After each step, your dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics and pain medication. These should help your pain and limit the possibility of developing an infection. Therefore, you should be on a good start to your recovery. However, it is the recovery where you may feel some discomfort. 

While you may feel some pain or discomfort, one study suggests that the pain of dental implants is less than a routine tooth extraction. If a dentist reviews the procedure and prepares them for the discomfort, they are less likely to experience significant pain or stress after the implantation. 

How to Aid Your Recovery

If you are in good health, the uncomfortable stage of your recovery should only last for a few days to a little over a week. However, excessive use of alcohol, smoking, and poor diet can impair your recovery. 

To help with the pain, be sure to take the medication your dentist prescribes as recommended. It is likely that they will suggest an anti-inflammatory medication. This should help with the swelling and the pain. Another way to help with the pain and inflammation is to ice your face. Ice will help dull the pain as well as reduce swelling, which can influence pain. 

It is important to take it easy the first few days after your surgery. Because your dentist must drill into your jaw, it is likely that you will be sore. Therefore, you should try to relax as much as possible. In addition, taking it easy can help your recovery process.