For those seeking a secure and effective method of replacing missing teeth, dental implant surgery is an ideal solution. Through the insertion of titanium-based artificial roots into the jawbone along with an accompanying abutment and crown, this procedure ensures durable results that last for many years to come.

Naturally, patients may be apprehensive regarding potential postoperative pain levels as well as their duration; however, by educating oneself on the specifics of dental implant surgery ahead of time, you can effectively prepare yourself mentally for what lies ahead.

 

The procedure for getting dental implants

 

Detailed Examination

Your dentist will conduct a comprehensive assessment to evaluate your overall health and the state of your jawbone. This preliminary evaluation before the dental implant procedure involves X-rays, blood tests, tooth impressions and other diagnostics. You must also provide details regarding your medical background, such as any illnesses you have suffered from in the past or medication you are currently taking. Your dentist will discuss with you specifics about how many teeth need to be replaced and whether or not this procedure is suitable for you depending on certain factors like bone grafting, which may be needed before proceeding with the dental implantation process.

 

dental implant st marysTooth Extraction

To ensure your mouth is healthy before any surgery, your dentist will extract any damaged teeth with an added dose of a local anesthetic to numb the area. Unless your natural teeth are fractured or broken, tooth extraction shouldn’t take too long and be done cautiously so surrounding tissue stays unharmed. Following the procedure, you’ll receive post-extraction instructions to reduce potential pain or dry sockets from occurring.

 

Inserting the implant and bone grafting

If your dentist has decided that your gums and jawbone are in satisfactory condition for the implant, he can move forward with the implant process. However, if there is an issue with the bone’s thickness or any other issues arise, then a bone graft must be performed to compensate. This procedure entails taking some of your own dental tissue from another part of your mouth and placing it where needed. The healing process post bone grafting procedure usually takes 3-4 months before you can start on implants again.

 

The placement of the abutment and crown

Following your implant’s recovery, your surgeon will fit an abutment on the implant and attach a crown. A bit of local anesthesia is used to make sure you feel nothing but mild pressure while they place the abutment.

 

How long does the pain last after a dental implant?

Though it can be difficult to anticipate the level of pain that entails dental implant surgery, this shouldn’t deter you from getting them. You may experience some degree of discomfort, swelling or ache during and post-procedure; however, this is only temporary while your implants will last a lifetime! During the first week after receiving dental implants, you might feel sensitivity in the area where they are placed. But don’t worry – by week two, most patients report decreased tenderness as their gum tissue begins to heal.

 

 

Why are dental implants painful?

Pain after dental implants can be caused by many factors, some of which are outlined below:

 

  • Loose cap

If the cap on the dental implant is not placed properly or isn’t an appropriate size, it can lead to pain post-implantation.

 

  • Post-surgical infection

For those struggling with ongoing discomfort after a dental implant, infection in the gum tissue may be to blame. Fortunately, it can easily be treated through a comprehensive regimen of antibiotics.

 

  • Loose implants

If the dental implants are not securely anchored to your jawbone, they may loosen and cause excruciating pain.

 

  • Nerve damage

If a nerve is not handled carefully during the implant placement process, it can unleash intense and discomforting sensations of pain.

 

  • Autoimmune diseases

Before you opt for the implant surgery, be sure to alert your dentist of any autoimmune disease you may have, as the body can potentially reject it after a few months. Taking this precaution is vital to avoid complications related to an autoimmune condition and ensure successful results!

 

5 tips to manage dental implant pain after surgery

Even though pain after the dental implant isn’t excruciating, it is still important to know how to manage it. Keep the following tips in mind for your ease.

  • You can take over-the-counter pain medication to curb the pain from the soreness during the first few days of the surgery. Your local drugstore will have ibuprofen, paracetamol and Diclofenac Sodium etc., for dental pain relief.  Do not take pain medications with an empty stomach, as this may cause nausea and vomiting. 
  • Take soft and cold food to give comfort to your gums. Hot and hard food can irritate the site of the implant. You can take yogurt, ice cream, smoothies etc. 
  • Give rest to your jaw and body to recover from the procedure. Avoid talking much while the soreness lasts.
  • Follow your dentist’s advice and use all the medicines, mouthwashes or oral gels as per prescription.
  • Smoking is one of the primary reasons for dental implant failure. The toxic particles of tobacco inflame the gums and prevent the growth of healthy tissue resulting in pain and a failed procedure.

 

How is pain liked to tooth implant failure?

If your discomfort intensifies and continues after a month or more, this could be an indication of underlying dental implant failure. This happens when the implant does not properly bond with the jawbone, resulting in a loose implant that can cause severe nerve damage in the area. To prevent further consequences from happening, it is necessary to visit your dentist immediately to discuss potential treatment for this issue.

If you are suffering from dental implant pain, then don’t wait any longer! Contact our friendly dentists at Pearl Dental Care on (02) 9158 6312 for professional assistance.

 

 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

 

 

 

References

Everything to know about dental implant procedure
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/dental-implant-procedure

Dental Implants
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants