Does Getting Dental Implants Hurt?

If you’re missing one, several, or all of your teeth, dental implants in Frisco can be a lifechanging solution. They have so many benefits that you can’t find in other tooth replacement options, like the ability to prevent bone loss and feeling like real teeth. However, many patients are hesitant because they worry that the process will be painful. Fortunately, with modern dental technology, you don’t have anything to be fearful of. Continue reading to learn what you can expect to feel as your smile is being restored.

How Does Dental Implant Placement Surgery Work?

Dental implants are typically made from titanium, and they look like little screws. During the procedure, the implants are placed directly into the jawbone to replace the roots of the missing teeth. Here is what you can expect:

1. The surgical site will be numbed with a local anesthetic, and you will likely be put under general anesthesia throughout the procedure.
2. A place is created in your gums and jawbone for the implant to be placed. This is carefully planned beforehand so the procedure is predictable and more likely be successful.
3. The implant will be inserted and secured. A cap will be placed on top to keep it safe while the area heals for the next few months.

How Will the Implants Feel After Surgery?

Since the area is numbed with anesthesia during the procedure, you won’t feel any pain while it is taking place. Afterwards, you may experience some swelling and soreness for a few days, but you won’t actually be able to feel the implants in your jawbone, as the jaw has very few nerve endings. Any discomfort you’re experiencing can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers and/or pain medication that has been prescribed by your dentist. Peak soreness usually happens between 3 to 5 days before it starts to subside.

How Will Your Implants Feel After They Completely Heal?

Once your implants are completely fused to your jawbone, they will feel pretty much the same as your natural teeth. The bone becomes a stable foundation for your new teeth, and you may even forget that they are any different from the rest.

Other tooth replacement options, like dentures, aren’t able to provide the same comfort or stability. Over time, they will need to be relined, prepared, and replaced. One of the great benefits of dental implants is the fact that they allow patients to regain up to 90% of their natural bite force. This isn’t something that can be achieved with dentures.

You may experience some soreness during your recovery period, but you shouldn’t feel a thing as your implants are being placed. Just take it easy for a little while and closely follow the instructions of your dentist. You’ll have your smile back in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Marco Caballeros earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry before going on to join Baylor’s Advanced Education in General Dentistry post-doctoral program. He completed his Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, which requires 500 hours of continuing education and passing a comprehensive exam comprised of 400 questions. To learn more about the dental implant process or to schedule a consultation at this office in Frisco, visit his website or call (469) 476-4092.