Closeup of a dental implant Do you hide your smile because of a gap in your teeth? If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be considering dental implants. But many people wonder: do dental implants hurt? Dental implants can be an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth, and that's a fair question. In this article, we'll explore what to expect during and after a dental implant procedure and provide tips for managing any pain or discomfort you may experience.

The dental implant procedure

Dental implants involve a multi-step process that typically takes several months to complete. During the first step, your dentist or oral surgeon will examine your mouth to determine if you're a good candidate for the procedure. This may involve taking X-rays or 3D images of your mouth to get a detailed view of your jawbone. The three parts of a dental implant. Screw, Abutment, and Crown
  • The Crown
  • The Abutment
  • The Screw (post)
We often refer to the screw part of the implant as the post. We screw the post into the jawbone. The abutment is connected to the screw and holds the crown in place. If you're a good candidate for dental implants, the next step is implant placement. Dr. Khayat will insert a small titanium post into your jawbone, acting as the "root" of your new tooth. The implant placement takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of implants you get. Many people worry about experiencing pain during implant placement; however, local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area where the implant will be placed. In some cases, sedation dentistry may also help you relax and reduce any anxiety about the procedure. After the implant is placed, your dentist will wait several months to allow the implant to fuse with your jawbone. This process is called osseointegration and is critical for the long-term success of the implant. Once the implant has fused with your jawbone, your dentist will attach an abutment and crown to the implant to complete the procedure.

Post-operative pain and discomfort

It's common to experience some pain and discomfort after the dental implant procedure. This is typically mild to moderate and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You can ask Dr. Khayat for advice on this matter. In addition to pain, you may experience swelling and bruising around the implant site. This is a normal part of the healing process and typically resolves within a few days. You can manage swelling by applying an ice pack to the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times daily.

Managing pain and discomfort after dental implant surgery

To manage pain and discomfort after dental implant surgery, following your dentist's instructions carefully is essential. This may include avoiding certain foods or activities for a few days after the procedure and taking any prescribed medications as directed. Getting plenty of rest and avoiding strenuous physical activity for the first few days after the procedure is also important. This will help your body heal and reduce the risk of complications. If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or other concerning symptoms after the dental implant procedure, don't hesitate to contact our office. We will advise as to the best course of action.

Final thoughts

Dental implants can be an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth. While some discomfort is normal during the procedure, it can be managed with proper care and pain management techniques. If you're considering dental implants, talk to us here at South Shore Prosthodontics about any concerns or additional questions. Book an appointment to enjoy a new smile with minimal discomfort. Book Your Appointment Or: Our dental office is located in Hingham and serves the surrounding communities of Hanover, Weymouth, Scituate, Cohasset, Hull, Rockland, Braintree, Brockton, Pembroke, Boston, Quincy, and Milton.