Did you recently lose a tooth? According to the market analytics website Trend Statistics, the total number of dental implants could increase 23% by 2026. This surgery is quickly starting to eclipse other dental restoration procedures.
Before your appointment, you may wonder, “Do dental implants hurt?” Despite the procedure’s growing popularity, many people don’t know what to expect from the dental implant recovery process.
Prepare for your upcoming procedure! Read on to learn more about pain management for implants today.
Dental Procedure Pain
Before your procedure, ask your dentist to walk you through the dental implant process. It’s broken into multiple appointments, giving your gums time to heal around the dental implant in between.
During your first appointment, your dentist will surgically place the dental implant (which looks like a small screw) into your jawbone. Don’t worry; you’ll remain under anesthesia as your dentist makes an incision to expose your jawbone.
Anesthesia and sedation should reduce any pain you experience during the surgery. However, you may experience numbness post-procedure.
The implant will fuse with the bone, ensuring stability. This process is called osseointegration.
Osseointegration
The osseointegration process can take a few months. As you heal, your jawbone will grow around the implant. Once securely anchored to your jawbone, the implant will function like a natural tooth.
Ensuring the implant’s stability protects your jawbone’s integrity. Without stimulation, the jawbone will deteriorate. You may lose additional teeth.
During this stage of your dental implant recovery process:
- Don’t drink using a straw
- Place gauze against the area if it bleeds
- Don’t poke the surgical site
- Don’t smoke
Remember, it can take a few months before your gum tissue heals and osseointegration is complete. Stick to a soft food diet during this time. Eating soft foods will reduce the likelihood of damaging the implant site.
Follow your dentist’s instructions to ensure a smooth dental implant recovery process. If you experience discomfort post-dental surgery, let them know.
Restoration
Once the area has healed, visit your dentist to complete your dental implant procedure. They’ll attach a crown (the tooth) atop your dental implant.
After this appointment, follow your dentist’s instructions to avoid complications. Let your dentist know immediately if you experience any unexpected symptoms.
Discomfort Post-Dental Surgery
Do dental implants hurt? It’s normal to experience some bruising, bleeding, swelling, and discomfort post-dental surgery. Your dentist may recommend a prescription or over-the-counter pain relief medication.
The timeline of your post dental procedure pain may include:
- Peak intensity within six hours after surgery
- Moderate swelling 48 hours after surgery
- A significant decrease in discomfort by the fifth day
- A gradual decrease in pain a week after surgery
You should notice reduced pain within two weeks after your dental implant procedure. If you’re still experiencing symptoms, let your dentist know.
Pain Perception
Some factors may influence your pain perception. These can include:
- The number of dental implants you need
- Where the implants are placed
- Your age
- If you have any pre-existing conditions
- How long the procedure takes
You may experience increased pain if you require more dental implants. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 5.6% of patients ages 50 to 64 have no remaining teeth. Older patients sometimes require full-mouth restoration, which can be more painful.
The location of the implant and its proximity to vital structures can cause additional pain. Swelling is greater in patients with implants placed in the posterior.
Some patients require additional surgeries, such as sinus lifts, bone regeneration, or bone grafts. Patients who had implant placement with guided bone regeneration experienced additional bruising and swelling.
Flapless procedures caused less pain intensity and took less time than open-flap procedures. Patients who underwent flapless procedures healed faster, with a 43% probability of experiencing no pain without taking medication. The probability may increase by taking steroidal anti-inflammatory agents.
Dental Implant Recovery Tips
Talk to your dentist for tips on managing your pain and discomfort following each procedure. Effective pain management for implants includes:
- Using over-the-counter pain relief medications
- Adjusting your diet
- Avoiding strenuous activity
- Prioritizing your oral health
Strenuous activity may disrupt the healing process. Avoid putting strain on the implant site. For example, you shouldn’t consume crunchy, hard, or sticky foods after the procedure.
Instead, eat soft foods during the first 48 hours after your surgery. These include:
- Scrambled eggs
- Smoothies
- Protein shakes
- Vitamin-rich broths/blended soups
- Mashed potatoes or bananas
- Avocado
- Hummus
- Applesauce
Stay hydrated during this time. Drinking water can remove bacteria from the area and benefit the healing process.
You can eat normally again once your swelling and bruising subside. Follow a protein-rich diet to help your body heal faster.
Avoid drinking alcohol or smoking after your surgery. Both can interfere with the healing process and increase your risk of complications.
Instead, prioritize your oral health during this time. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help the surgical site heal.
Brushing and flossing will remove bacteria and food particles from the area. Otherwise, they can mix with your saliva to form plaque; the tacky substance that sticks to our teeth. Plaque can harden into tartar and release acid if you neglect your oral health.
Potential Complications
As with any surgery, there are potential health risks to consider. They’re often minor and easily treated.
Potential complications during the implant healing process include:
- Nerve damage
- Injury or damage to surrounding teeth or blood vessels
- An infection at the implant site
- Sinus problems
Nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in your chin, lips, gums, or natural teeth. Let your dentist know if you experience any of these complications right away.
Do Dental Implants Hurt?
To recap, do dental implants hurt? A little pain and discomfort are normal. However, you should let your dentist know if your symptoms persist before you experience complications.
Having an experienced dental implant team can make all the difference as you restore your smile. At Garden Springs Dental, we take pride in being the top choice for dental services in Lexington. We’re committed to providing exceptional care while taking the time to understand your distinct needs and preferences.
Discover our advanced techniques, expertise, and wide range of dental services. Contact us now to schedule your next visit.
