Dental implants have become the go-to solution for both patients and dentists when it comes to tooth restoration. Implants act as natural teeth and are long-lasting, with most patients enjoying their benefits for 30 years or more. Because they are surgically placed, many patients are a bit concerned about the process and wonder if they’ll be in pain. This post contains discussion about what you can expect during the surgery and why there is nothing to worry about!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants consist of 3 parts: the post, the abutment or connector piece, and the restoration on top (crown, bridge, or denture). The post, which resembles a screw, is surgically inserted into the jawbone through a small incision made in the gum and into a hole that accommodates the implant. Once the post is secure, an abutment is connected to the top, and the restoration is securely fitted to this piece.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Placement may sound uncomfortable, but rest assured that this surgery is virtually painless. Before beginning surgery, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic like lidocaine or Novocain to completely numb the area being worked on and ensure that it stays numb until the treatment is complete.
If you’re especially anxious about visiting the dentist, sedation methods are available to make your experience less fearful. Nitrous oxide sedation, commonly known as “laughing gas,” is administered through a nasal mask, creating a very calm, happy, numb feeling in the patient. There is also oral conscious sedation in which powerful anti-anxiety medication is taken about an hour prior to surgery to deeply relax the patient. In fact, they may not remember details from the appointment at all!
Is the Recovery Painful?
After the numbness wears off, there’s a chance you’ll experience some pain or discomfort in your mouth, jaws, or face after the surgery. This is to be expected and is usually characterized as a “mild” pain. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen are typically strong enough to address the issue. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe you medicine like antibiotics or painkillers to treat pain and swelling.
In very rare cases, a patient may experience a considerable or progressive amount of discomfort after the surgery; this could be due to an improperly fitted implant or an infection. You should see your dentist as soon as possible if this happens to you.
Here are some other tips to follow to ensure as smooth and painless a recovery as possible after implant surgery:
- Rinse regularly with warm saltwater to kill germs and promote healing.
- Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods for the first 10 days.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Use a cold compress on the affected area to control pain.
- Do not exert yourself physically.
It’s also important to follow up with your dental appointments. The dentist will need to examine you to make sure the implant is taking and fusing with the jawbone. You will also need to make a visit once your crown is ready to be placed, though it is not an invasive procedure and should cause no pain.
Most patients report that their dental implant surgery was simpler than they thought it would be and are surprised at how quickly they can return to their daily lives!
About the Practice
Unlike some practices who get their patients in and out as quickly as possible, our team at Amaze Dental chooses quality over quantity when it comes to our care. We offer a variety of services from ordinary checkups and restorations to emergency care and smile enhancement. When it comes to dental implants, we perform the restoration and placement all in our office, meaning you won’t need a referral to visit a different dentist! Have questions? Call our DeSoto office at (972) 230-1100 or visit us online.