The first step to treating your tooth loss involves placing at least 1 dental implant into your jawbone to serve as a new root. The number of posts needed varies depending on the number of teeth you\u2019re treating. Your gum tissue will be opened to gain access to your jaw, where are small hole will be strategically drilled into it to place your post. Afterward, your gums are sutured closed, and you\u2019ll begin the healing process. Although the surgery is invasive, you won\u2019t feel anything because anesthesia or sedation are used to ensure you\u2019re comfortable. In some cases, you may not even remember your appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As with any surgical treatment, you can expect there to be some discomfort after the sedative or anesthesia wears off. Many patients report the pain to be less than what\u2019s experienced after a tooth extraction. It is rare for patients to have significant discomfort during their recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your dentist will recommend taking any prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as instructed to manage any discomfort while your mouth heals. You can also apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to decrease pain, swelling, and bruising. It\u2019s best to stick to a soft diet to avoid pain or injury to the surgical sites. As your pain dissipates, you can resume your regular diet, but keep away from anything that\u2019s overly hard or sticky. On average, it takes about 14 days for any soreness to completely resolve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once your jawbone has fused to your implant posts through a process called osseointegration, and you\u2019ve been fitted with your restoration, you shouldn\u2019t experience any pain. Your dental implant should never hurt. If you develop any pain, swelling, or the implant feels loose, it can indicate a problem. You should contact your dentist right away to prevent dental implant failure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the thought of pain during your dental implant surgery is giving you anxiety, discuss your concerns with your dentist. They\u2019ll help calm your nerves, so you can sit back and relax while they rebuild a beautiful, functional smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
About Dr. David Earnest<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Earnest<\/a> earned his dental degree at the University of Texas and has completed advanced training in implant dentistry. As a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, he has the qualifications you can trust to treat your tooth loss. Contact our office<\/a> today to see if dental implants are right for you.<\/p>\n\n\n