Treating tooth loss with dental implants can be a worthwhile investment and experience. However, many patients fear the surgical procedure that is required as part of the treatment will cause significant pain. Although it is natural to express concern when preparing for any kind of oral surgery, you can rest assured that when it comes to placing dental implants, you have nothing to worry about. Keep reading to learn more about the process of receiving these prosthetics and what you can do to minimize any discomfort you might feel during your recovery.
Will it Hurt to Receive Dental Implants?
The oral surgery that is required for dental implants to be put into place within the jawbone will not cause any pain. The reason is that your dentist will take the necessary precautions to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure, beginning to end.
Before the initial incisions are made in the gums, you will receive local anesthesia, which numbs the mouth so that you do not feel any discomfort. This numbing agent will target the nerves surrounding the vacant sockets, and while you will not feel pain, you may notice some pressure, but it will only be minimal.
Once the dentist is satisfied with your condition, they will begin to make small incisions in the gums, exposing the underlying bone so that each implant post can be properly placed. After it is secured in the bone, the dentist will close your gums and place a protective healing cap over the site so that it properly heals.
Will There Be Pain During Recovery?
After your procedure is complete, you will enter the recovery phase, which takes time. Although you may feel good enough to return to work after a few days, you’ll need to avoid strenuous activity and certain foods to prevent potential complications (i.e., dry socket, excessive bleeding and swelling, failed osseointegration, etc.).
While recovering, it is normal to experience some slight discomfort. After all, the effects of the local anesthesia will eventually wear off. To curb any pain you might feel, you can take over-the-counter medication to reduce soreness as well as use a cold compress on your outer cheeks.
This sensation should not last long, but you will want to stick to a soft food diet for several days or up to one week. This not only prevents additional discomfort but also keeps pressure off your teeth and surgical sites so that you heal more swiftly.
There is nothing to worry about when it comes to receiving dental implants. Your dentist will make sure you are completely comfortable throughout the surgery, which means you can expect a successful placement that puts you one step closer to a healthier, complete smile.
About the Practice
At Bagley, Goodwin & Hrinda, PC (BGH Dental), we are pleased to have three dentists on staff who bring many years of proven experience and top-tier customer service to patients living in Greenfield and its surrounding areas. Offering dental implants to those who are suffering from tooth loss, we make it possible to achieve fully restored smiles that work like normal and remain healthy and beautiful for decades. While many patients worry the surgical procedure will be painful, we strive to create a comfortable environment and experience for everyone. If you are thinking about this permanent form of tooth replacement but want to know more, contact us via our website or call (413) 772-0842.