Are Dental Implants Painful?

Dental implants are a popular choice to replace missing teeth caused by tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other issues. They provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth.

Want to learn more about dental implants in Plano, TX? Schedule your consultation: (972) 964-3774

Missing teeth restored with dental implants look, feel and function just like natural teeth. They have a very high success rate and with proper care can last a lifetime.

Because dental implants require surgery and placement of a post into the jawbone, it\’s natural to wonder if dental implants are painful and uncomfortable.

Fortunately, from a pain perspective, the jawbone has few nerve endings. You should not feel any pain during the implant surgery, especially if it is done with healthy tissue. Local anesthesia can be used during the procedure. The placement of dental implants should only cause minor surgical discomfort. If you are nervous about the surgery, we have sedative options to ensure your comfort.

Right after you dental implant surgery and in the first few days after, some discomfort is likely. This is no different than any other major dental procedure. You may feel some aching in your chin area, cheeks, or underneath your eyes. Some patients experience bruising of the skin and gums or minor bleeding.

Immediately after dental implant surgery, you can use an icepack to help ease any swelling. The pain should be manageable and will likely only require Advil, Tylenol or Ibuprofen for relief. Rinsing gently with warm salt water throughout the days following the implant surgery will help soothe the tissues and will offer you additional relief.

Though some patients will report some discomfort following surgery, many will report that it is not as bad as they thought for a dental surgery. Most find that over the counter medications provide all the relief they need to proceed normally right after the procedure.

During the healing process, your implant will fuse with your natural jawbone ( the medical term is \”osseointegrate\”). The implant and jawbone will grow together to form a strong and long-lasting foundation for your replacement teeth. This healing process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple months depending on your situation. You will be able to maintain your normal everyday life in between appointments.

Once the new implant has bonded with the jawbone, a small connector called an abutment is placed on top of the dental implant. This will connect the implant to the new replacement tooth.

When having dental implant surgery, you will benefit from a surgeon with experience. Their technique, skill, and experience will help minimize pain during surgery and afterward.

Ready to learn more about dental implants?

Contact us today to set up a dental implant consultation. Dr. Wilhite has over 30 years experience and can answer all your questions and has the ability to minimize any pain. He will be able to determine if this is right for you.

We can also talk about affordable financing and dental insurance options to make sure you get the dental care you need.

Call us at (972) 964-3774

David Wilhite is a Plano Texas Dentist who has helped hundreds of patients with TMJ treatment and relief. He has over 30 years experience in general and cosmetic dentistry.

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