Dental implants rank among the longest-lasting and most effective means to replace missing teeth. One thing that bothers those who contemplate such a procedure is the extent of pain it implies. Knowing how things will happen before, within, and outside the procedure would alleviate fear and make the entire process more hassle-free.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone during surgery to act as a substitute for the root of a lost tooth. The implant integrates with the bone over time through a process known as osseointegration, offering solid support for a replacement tooth, such as a crown or bridge. Dental implants are similar to natural teeth and provide long-term advantages, such as better oral health and a self-assured smile.
Does The Procedure Hurt?
One of the most frequent questions regarding dental implants is whether or not the process hurts. The good news is that the majority of patients feel little to no pain during the procedure. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of what you can expect:
1. Throughout the Procedure
- Prior to the commencement of the surgery, the dentist in your area will provide local anesthesia to numb the site of treatment. This will make you insensitive to pain during the procedure.
- Others can also choose sedation dentistry, which allows them to relax or even sleep during the treatment.
- Due to the anesthesia, you might feel pressure but no stinging pain.
2. After the Procedure
After the anesthesia has worn off, you might feel mild to moderate pain, much like you would after a tooth extraction. Some of the common feelings are:
- Soreness in the area of the implant
- Swollen gums and face
- Mild bleeding
- Stiffness of the jaw
These will typically resolve within a few days and can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Your local dentist can also prescribe pain medication if necessary.
Pain Levels Compared to Other Dental Procedures
Most patients experience that having dental implants is less painful than they first imagined. Actually, the pain is not as severe as that of a tooth extraction. Because the jawbone itself contains few nerve endings, the pain is typically minimal compared to other procedures involving soft tissues, including gum surgeries.
Tips for Managing Pain and Discomfort
To achieve a problem-free recovery after receiving dental implants near you, here are the pain management suggestions:
- Adhere to prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief medication according to your dentist’s instructions.
- Put an ice pack on the area to minimize swelling.
- Adhere to a soft food diet for several days to prevent applying pressure on the implant site.
- Practice good oral hygiene by carefully brushing around the site and using a prescribed mouth rinse.
- Do not smoke and drink alcohol, as they will delay the healing process.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Even though most of the pain is short-term, there will be times when you should reach the dentist near you to get a further assessment.
- Acute or chronic pain lasting more than one week
- Too much swelling or infection, like pus in the mouth or a bad-tasting mouth
- Trouble swallowing or opening your mouth
Rapid response to any abnormal symptoms will avoid complications and ensure proper healing.
How Long Does the Pain Last?
The majority of patients describe that the discomfort reaches its peak within 48 hours and then slowly decreases. Within a week, the pain significantly subsides. Healing and osseointegration occur in a matter of months, but this is usually not painful.
Go to Dentistry On Hurontario For Professional Treatment
If you are thinking of dental implants in Brampton, you can be sure that the procedure is not as painful as most people believe. With new dental methods and proper care after, pain is minimal and bearable.
At Dentistry on Hurontario, our experienced staff guarantees a comfortable process from beginning to end. If you want dental implants close to you, call us today to find out more about how we can bring back your smile with confidence!