Dental implants can last a lifetime. If you compare their longevity with the temporary discomfort after implant surgery, you’ll probably conclude that it’s worth it.
Dental Implant Pain – What to Expect
Before
Before dental implant surgery, you will receive mild sedation to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure. The anti-anxiety medication will keep you calm and reduce your sensitivity to pain. You will be relaxed when you arrived at the dental office.
During
Your implant dentist or oral surgeon the appropriate area is numb before the procedure begins. You won’t feel your dentist place the implants in your jawbone. Your dentist will communicate with you throughout the process to ensure it is painless.
After
The amount of discomfort after your implant surgery depends on how extensive it was and how many dental implants your dentist placed. Many patients can manage their pain with ibuprofen. If your dentist anticipates that you’ll feel moderate pain, he or she will prescribe pain relief medication in advance of your procedure.
Your oral surgeon or implant dentist will give you post-op instructions. If you carefully follow them, you can minimize the pain and discomfort you feel at home. Your dentist will provide you with a list of things to avoid, some of which include:
- Vigorous exercise
- Smoking
- Touching the surgical site
- Chewing hard, crunchy, or sticky foods
- Chewing on the side of your mouth where implants were placed.
Your dentist will also give you instructions to minimize swelling and maintain good oral hygiene, which will promote healing and prevent infection.
Pain from dental implant surgery usually peaks within three to four days. Afterward, your pain will gradually decrease. Within ten days, if you feel any discomfort, it will be minimal. If your pain is consistent, or if it increases, contact your dentist right away.
You’ll Love the Final Results
After your dental implants fuse with your jawbone, you will receive permanent replacement teeth—dental crowns or complete dentures. They will look and feel completely natural. The freedom and convenience of successful dental implants that can last a lifetime can help you forget about the temporary pain or discomfort during the healing process.
This post is sponsored by Baton Rouge, LA implant dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher, a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI).
