If you have a missing tooth, you can talk to your dentist about dental implants. Dental implants are titanium prosthetic tooth roots. It is a replacement option for missing teeth. Compared to other replacement options, dental implants last much longer and are more durable than dental bridges.
However, getting dental implants requires an invasive surgery. The titanium portion of the implant lies within your jaw to provide support. 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 should be numb. Additionally, you will likely be under sedation as well.
It is possible that you may feel pain or discomfort during your recovery process. 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 you are a candidate for dental implants, you will need to undergo a thorough dental exam. This will involve several sets of x-rays and 3-D modeling to get a complete picture of your oral health. Plus, it will be the first step in your treatment plan. After they review 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.
A dental implant is composed of three parts: the post, the abutment, and the crown. First, your dentist must surgically implant the post. Next, they will need to make an incision, exposing the bone. Then, they will need to 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 compared to other tooth replacement options.
Once completely healed, you can receive the abutment portion of the dental implant. This will later hold the dental crown. You will need to heal for approximately two weeks before you can get the final part of the dental implant: the crown.
Recovery Tips
After your surgery, your dentist will prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. It is essential that you 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. If you want an additional recovery method, you should ice your face to minimize pain and swelling.