What To Expect With Pain When You Get Dental Implants
If you're interested in getting one or more dental implants, you probably want to know if you'll experience a lot of pain. While it may sound like a painful procedure to have a hole drilled in your bone, the pain may not be as bad as you imagine. Here's why.
The Area Is Numbed With Anesthetic
The procedure itself shouldn't be painful at all since you'll receive an anesthetic. Possible anesthesia options include a local injection, supplemental gas, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. Your dentist will choose the best anesthesia based on your individual condition and the length of your procedure.
The anesthesia numbs you while the dental implant procedure is underway and provides a residual effect that helps control pain for a while after you leave the dentist's office.
You'll Take Medication To Relieve Pain Later
Your dentist might prescribe pain relievers or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help control your pain after the procedure. Dental implant procedures vary, and the amount of pain that's to be expected varies, too.
If you have a simple implant that doesn't require a lot of manipulation of your gums, over-the-counter pain relievers may be all you need for a few days. If you have a bone graft, too, you may need prescription drugs to help with the pain.
The pain you feel from a dental implant might come from your jaw or from the gum tissue, but the pain should only need to be treated with medication for a few days.
You Can Manage Pain During Recovery
Your dentist sends you home with recovery instructions that tell you the type of medications to take and how often to take them to manage pain. In addition, they'll advise you on eating a soft diet and other things such as not smoking, not using a straw to drink, not spitting, and not playing with the implant area with your tongue. They'll also provide instructions on oral care so you don't dislodge the clot or do anything to cause further pain.
By following your dentist's instructions carefully, you'll have a lower risk of pain during your recovery. Dental implant surgery may sound like you're going to have a lot of pain, but that is often not the case. However, if you have concerns, talk to your dentist so they can prepare you for what to expect. Since it's a type of surgery, you'll have some discomfort and tenderness, but that's worth it to get an implant and a new tooth that makes it easier to chew or that improves your smile.
For more information about dental implants, reach out to a local dental clinic.