There’s no doubt that dental implants can significantly improve a person’s smile and overall oral health. Despite their benefits, many of our patients are apprehensive about the procedure. One of the first questions our patients ask is, “Do tooth implants hurt?” We answer with a smile, “Not nearly as much as you fear”.
However, we understand that you may still be apprehensive. So, we’ll take you through the process and demystify the discomfort associated with dental implant surgery.
Key Takeaways:
- As with most surgeries, you can expect some pain and discomfort from a dental implant procedure.
- The pain is typically less intense than expected and can be effectively managed with pain relievers.
- Dental implants are not more painful than other common dental procedures.
Table of Contents
The Dental Implant Procedure
A dental implant is essentially a small titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone, where it serves as a substitute for the root of the missing tooth. This post will eventually support a crown, bridge, or denture that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and it involves several steps:
1. Initial Assessment
The dentist conducts a thorough examination of the oral cavity and jawbone to determine suitability for implants. This may include X-rays or 3D images.
2. Implant Placement
The titanium post is placed into the jawbone during a surgical procedure. This is generally done under local anesthesia, which numbs the area, preventing pain during the surgery.
3. Healing
After the implant is placed, osseointegration begins, where the jawbone grows around the implant, anchoring it securely. This phase can last several months.
4. Abutment and Crown Placement
Once the implant has integrated with the bone, an abutment is attached to the post. Later, the artificial tooth (crown) is placed on the abutment.
Do Dental Implants Hurt? Pain Perception and Management
So, are dental implants painful? The answer is yes, but only as much as the procedure calls for.
Let’s explain.
Where surgery is involved, including dental implant procedures, there’s bound to be some pain and discomfort. During the implant procedure, you’ll typically experience no pain because the area is numbed with local anesthesia.
Post-operative discomfort is normal once the anesthesia wears off (about 2-4 hours after the procedure) characterized by swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate pain. However, this is typically less intense than many patients anticipate and can be effectively managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs.
The invasive nature of drilling into the bone might sound daunting but the actual experience is usually less painful than expected. This is thanks to advanced surgical techniques and effective pain management strategies.
How Painful Are Teeth Implants? Comparing Pain Levels
Dental implants might initially seem more frightening because they involve surgery. You’ll be surprised to learn many patients report that the post-procedure pain is comparable to or less than that of a surgical tooth extraction. Better yet, the pain tends to subside more quickly.
So, is a tooth implant painful? Yes. However, it is not significantly more painful than other common dental procedures, and the discomfort is manageable.
With dental implants, the lasting benefits of a restored smile and improved oral function greatly outweigh the temporary discomfort experienced during the healing process.
Contact Dixon Dental Center for High-Quality Dental Implants
Are you looking to get dental implants that last? Visit Dixon Dental Center. With our years of experience and deep commitment to your well-being, we’ll take you through the dental implant surgery and offer our full support during recovery. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
