Sciota, Pennsylvania
Dental implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth. Providing a stable base that functions like a tooth’s root, the titanium post used for dental implants is surgically placed into the jawbone. Then, a specially designed crown attaches to the implant and is what you see when you open your mouth. Dental implants are the most durable and longest lasting tooth replacement option available in dentistry. If you’ve ever considered your options for tooth replacement, perhaps you’ve considered dental implants but wondered about the pain that may be associated with the surgical aspect of this procedure. So today on the blog, our implant dentists in Sciota at Quiet Valley Dental share this comprehensive guide for prospective patients considering dental implants.
Does it hurt to get dental implants?
This question has a broad answer because everyone has a different threshold of pain tolerance. However, we will start by saying that most people describe the discomfort following an implant placement to be no worse than pain from the extraction itself. While some level of discomfort is expected, you should not experience intolerable pain or pain that cannot be relieved with medication. Additionally, any discomfort that may arise should subside within a few days to a week. If it worsens or does not subside, you should contact your Sciota implant dentist right away.
During the implant placement procedure your mouth is numb so you will not feel any pain. Afterward, you may experience a dull or mild ache that lasts for a few days and the gum area at the surgical site will remain tender for up to a week. Some patients state that they can control their discomfort with over-the-counter (OTC) pain-relieving medications. However, discuss this option with your dentist to be sure it is safe for you to take OTC pain relievers and ensure you take the correct dosage.
Mild swelling is also common after implant surgery, which can increase discomfort or pain. Swelling can be relieved by applying ice packs to the side of your face for 20 minutes at a time. Be sure to wrap the ice pack with a soft cloth to protect your skin.
Will there be pain or discomfort long-term?
In successful implant cases there should not be any discomfort or once the surgical site heals. That is perhaps one of the greatest advantages of implants because dentures or partials put pressure on your gums or rub along the gums causing sore spots that are slow to heal because of the constant friction from the dentures.
Implant Dentists in Sciota, Pennsylvania
Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant can be an exciting time, although it’s understandable that you may feel apprehensive about undergoing the procedure or what it will feel like afterward. At Quiet Valley Dental, we also offer sedation dentistry to help patients who experience a high level of anxiety during dental treatments. If you would like to learn more about dental implants or sedation dentistry, contact Quiet Valley Dental at (570) 992-7040 to schedule a consultation.
