How Painful is Getting a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is one of the best options to replace missing or damaged teeth today. Giving patients a natural and lasting smile, implants allow them to eat and live without holding back. However, many people are hesitant to get them because of fear of experiencing pain. While this is a common fear, many dental implant patients say that the procedure does not hurt and any discomfort is minimal
About Dental Implant
Dental implant surgery is a process performed over a course of a few months, with most of this time spent waiting as both the patient and dentist work together to get the desired outcome. First, an incision is made in the gum and the implant is placed into the jawbone and is allowed to heal for three to six months. Temporary crowns are placed in the meantime to make smiling and eating possible.
Once the implant is healed, an abutment is placed on it. This is an extension of the implant metal post and will serve as the base for the new tooth. An impression of the abutment is taken and is used to make the tooth restoration. After the completion of the restoration, a final visit to the dentist is required to finish the whole process.
Dental Implant and Pain
The drilling and screwing involved might sound painful, but it is less complicated than it sounds. A local anesthetic is usually used, so you should not feel any pain during the surgery, especially when done on healthy tissue. It is also helpful to note that the bone where the implant is placed does not have any pain-sensing nerves. If you are still nervous about it sedative options can be made available for you.
Immediately after the surgery and in the next few days, expect to experience some discomfort. However, any pain should be manageable. You will feel some discomfort in your cheeks, chin, and under-eye area. Some bruising and minor bleeding is also expected. Painkillers will be recommended. After the surgery, use an icepack to reduce swelling and eat soft foods for up to 10 days.
Because a dental implant is major dental surgery, it is important that you pick a surgeon with experience who can give you gentle care and excellent results. If you have any questions or doubts about the procedure, tell your dentist about it before you agree on the treatment, so all of your questions can be answered and doubts eased.
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