If your dentist has recommended dental implant surgery, it’s understandable if you’re wondering, ‘is dental implant painful’? Dental implants are always placed using anaesthetic to keep you comfortable during the procedure. When you visit a dentist that offers a free consultation, he or she will discuss pain management options with you and whether local or general anaesthetic would be best. In this article, we will explain what to expect in terms of pain and healing and when you should refer your symptoms to your dentist.
Managing Pain During Dental Implant Surgery
Each dental implant procedure starts with a consultation to evaluate
- How many dental implants you need
- Whether dental implants are the right tooth replacement for you
- How to plan your dental implant surgery
You can get a free consultation at your local dental clinic before committing to the procedure to better understand your tooth replacement options.
So, Is Dental Implant Painful?
Because dental implants require surgery, the procedure is always performed under anaesthetic. If you are just having one implant and do not have concerns about pain, it’s likely that local anaesthetic will be effective. If you have a number of dental implants placed, or your procedure is complex, your dentist may recommend general anaesthetic.
Pain is a relative term, and different patients experience it differently. Some patients compare dental implant pain to having a tooth extracted. Others may find it more intense. If you are concerned about pain, it’s advisable to discuss your concerns with your dentist before having dental implant surgery so that a management plan can be put into place.
Managing Pain After Dental Implant Surgery
Once the anaesthetic has worn off, you may experience some temporary symptoms, including
- Tenderness and sensitivity at the implant site
- Swelling
- Light bleeding at the site
- Pain in your jaw
- Light bruising
It’s important that you follow your dentist’s post-operative care instructions to minimise your symptoms:
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your face to reduce swelling and bruising
- Take any pain medications or anti-inflammatories as instructed. In the majority of cases, pain and swelling after a dental implant procedure can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication
- Care for the surgical site by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water
- Eating soft foods and chewing on the opposite side of your mouth for the first few days after your surgery.
How Long Does Dental Implant Pain Last?
You can experience to feel some discomfort in your jaw for approximately ten days after your procedure. Some patients may find that it lasts for up to 14 days, but other patients feel back to themselves after just a week. Swelling and bruising may last a little longer than dental implant pain.
Dental implant pain generally only requires pain medication for a day or two. Some patients do not need to take any pain medication.
When To Refer Dental Pain To Your Dentist
If you notice the pain is worsening or lasts for longer than two weeks, you should contact your dentist for a further evaluation. Sometimes, worsening pain can be a symptom of a complication that requires treatment.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your dentist immediately
- Increased swelling
- Vomiting or nausea
- Worsening bleeding
- Any of these symptoms accompanied by a fever
Following your dentist’s instructions and attending all of your follow-up consultations after your procedure will minimise your chances of developing a complication.
Possible Complications After A Dental Implant
- An infection at the implant site
- Dental implant failure
- Opening of your surgical incision
- An implant that doesn’t fit properly
A thorough evaluation and good planning can help you to avoid dental implant failure. Your chances of implant failure are significantly decreased if you
- Are a non-smoker
- Have excellent dental hygiene habits to reduce oral bacteria
- Do not have gum disease
Caring For Your Dental Implant
Tooth implants need the same level of oral hygiene as your natural teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential to manage bacteria levels and keep your implant and gums healthy. Visiting your dentist every six months will ensure that plaque and tartar levels are kept under control and that your mouth is protected against decay and gum disease.
For a more personal response to the question, ‘is dental implant painful’ and to find out what your pain management options are, please call our friendly team at Available Dental Care to book a free dental consultation near you today: (02) 4062 8763.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Is It Common to Experience Pain After Getting Dental Implants?
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/dental-implant-pain
How Painful Are Dental Implants?
https://www.medicinenet.com/how_painful_are_dental_implants/article.htm