Talk to your dentist about a dental implant for a missing tooth. Dental implants are titanium prosthetic tooth roots. Compared to other replacement options, dental implants last much longer and are more durable than dental bridges. However, dental implant procedures require intensive oral surgery.
Because dental implants require surgery, patients often ask: do dental implants hurt? The answer is a little more complicated than “yes” or “no”. You won’t be able to feel any pain during your procedure because the surgical area will be numb. Additionally, you will likely be under sedation as well.
You may feel pain or discomfort during your recovery process, but that’s well after surgery. Getting implants involves several surgeries, which can leave you sore and swollen. However, your dentist will be sure to give you the best tips to speed up your recovery and minimize your pain.
What is the Process?
Once your dentist decides that you are a candidate for dental implants, you will undergo a thorough dental exam. This will involve several sets of x-rays and 3D modeling to get a complete picture of your oral health. Then he will create a treatment plan.
After your dental implant specialist reviews your medical history, they will move to the first surgery and sedation. Your dental team must examine your medical history to ensure you will be safe during your surgery. Dental implant surgery is a major surgical procedure, so you must be in good health.
In some cases, a bone graft may be necessary to strengthen the jawbone and fully support the implant post. This can extend the recovery time, but with patience and diligent care, the area will heal properly.
Three parts compose a dental implant: the titanium post, the abutment, and the crown. First, your dentist must surgically implant the post. The titanium portion of the implant lies within your jaw to provide support. Next, the dentist will need to make an incision to expose the jawbone.
Then, they will drill into the bone before they place the post. The post acts like the tooth root, which will support the rest of the implant and the crown.
Before you can move to the next step, your jaw must completely heal. This means that your bone needs to grow into and around the dental implant. While this process can take several weeks or months, dental implants provide the most support and function versus other options.
Once your mouth completely heals, you can receive the abutment portion of the dental implant. The abutment will later hold the dental crown. You will need to heal for approximately two weeks before you can get the final part of the implant restoration. Your final prosthetic will either be a dental crown, denture, or partial denture.
Tips for Recovering from Dental Implant Surgery
By understanding what to expect and following care instructions, you can ensure a smooth and successful recovery. After your surgery, your dentist will prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. Take the antibiotics as prescribed to prevent any infections post-surgery. Not only are infections dangerous, but they can increase the time you have to wait before you can finish your implant process.
Taking anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling and discomfort. Reduced swelling can help your healing process. You can also ice your face to minimize pain and swelling. After you get the implant, it’s normal for the surrounding teeth and gums may feel sensitive.
Proper oral hygiene is crucial for promoting healing and preventing infection, so you should still brush. However, be gentle when brushing and flossing the adjacent teeth during this time. Be careful not to disturb the implant site. Rinsing with a warm saltwater solution can also keep the area clean.
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