Is dental implant surgery painful?
When people hear the term dental implant, most immediately ask, 'Are dental implants painful? Do they hurt?'. Fair enough, having a screw inserted into your jawbone can seem a bit daunting! However, in reality, the procedure is not as dramatic as you might think.
Local anaesthesia is used during the dental implant procedure, so you won't feel a thing. Your dentist will completely numb the area, and you will only feel slight pressure. Patients may experience mild pain, swelling, and discomfort for the first 1-2 days after the implants. This discomfort will significantly decrease within a week. In short, you will not feel any pain during the procedure. In fact, many people say it is more comfortable than having a tooth extracted.
Pain after dental implants
It's normal to experience some pain after getting a dental implant. Your body is reacting to the fact that a small screw has been inserted into your jawbone. But don't worry; this pain is usually not severe and will subside within a few days.
After getting a dental implant, you may also experience some bleeding, swelling and bruising of the gums and facial features, or jaw pain. These are normal reactions to healing. To reduce or eliminate pain, you should follow your dentist's instructions. Your dentist will provide appropriate post-operative care instructions to manage the pain.
In short, short-term pain after a dental implant is normal but temporary. With proper care and medical support, you can get through this process quite comfortably.
How long do dental implants hurt?
The first 24-48 hours are when swelling and pain are most severe. During this time, painkillers prescribed by your doctor can help relieve the pain. Many patients report that the pain is gone and they are able to return to their normal lives.
Post-operative swelling and bruising usually subside within 7-10 days. The stiffness in the jaw area is also temporary and diminishes as the healing process progresses. Most people report that the pain is largely gone after the first week and they experience no discomfort.
Causes of throbbing pain after dental implant surgery
Experiencing pain after a dental implant is perfectly normal. However, if this pain becomes throbbing, it can be caused by several different factors. Here are the most common causes and ways to manage them.
Overloading the implant
Once your implant has fused with your jawbone, it will be firmly in place. However, if you put too much pressure on the prosthesis after the procedure or bite down on something too hard, the implant may loosen or become damaged. You may experience pain in this case. To prevent this, it is very important to follow your dentist's instructions regarding recommended foods.
To illustrate, a dental implant works much like a newly installed screw. If you apply too much force, the screw may loosen, making it difficult for the system to function properly.
Opening of the incision site
The incision made during implant placement may open over time. This is usually caused by excessive physical activity, lack of care, or suture problems. Reopening the incision can increase the risk of pain and infection. In this case, you may need to rinse your mouth with a chlorhexidine mouthwash or take antibiotics. If the pain persists, you should consult your dentist.
Incorrectly placed implant
It takes time for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. If the implant is not positioned correctly, it will not fuse properly. This can cause pain. In this case, the implant may need to be removed and reinserted.
Let's explain with an example: An incorrectly placed implant, just like a nail hammered into the wrong place, cannot provide the necessary support to your tooth. This causes problems in the long term.
Infection
Infection is caused by bacteria entering the area after the procedure. If the wound does not heal properly, an infection can develop, leading to swelling, redness, and throbbing pain. Good oral hygiene is very important to prevent infection. Your dentist may recommend regular check-ups and antibiotic treatment to prevent this.
In conclusion, there may be several different causes of pain after dental implant surgery. However, most cases can be controlled with proper care and treatment. If throbbing pain persists, it is very important to contact your dentist. Remember, everything must be under control in order to achieve healthy and strong teeth at the end of the dental implant process.
Why do dental implants hurt years later?
Dental implants provide a permanent and functional solution to replace lost teeth. However, over time, even years later, you may experience pain in the implanted teeth. This is usually a sign of a problem. So, what could be causing this pain years later?
- Horizontal movement of the implant
- Peri-implantitis
- Bone loss
- Inflammation
- Misalignment of neighboring teeth
You may be at higher risk of implant failure in the following situations:
- If you have neglected implant care,
- If you have bacterial growth in your mouth,
- If you have had gum disease or periodontitis in the past,
- If you smoke,
- If you have uncontrolled diabetes.
Furthermore, if you have not provided adequate care and cleaning for your dental implant, pain may develop around your implant and affect your neighbouring teeth.
Dental implants can be long-lasting with proper care and regular dental visits. Good oral hygiene, regular cleanings, and dental checkups help maintain the health of your implant.
Managing pain and discomfort after dental implants
Pain and discomfort after a dental implant procedure are a natural part of the treatment and are usually temporary. However, it's important to take some steps to manage this discomfort and facilitate the healing process. Here are some practical tips for post-dental implant pain management and care:
- During the first few days, applying a cold compress to the implant area can reduce swelling and pain. You can also find relief by applying an ice pack to your face for 15-20 minutes each time, several times a day.
- Additionally, taking painkillers (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen) prescribed by your doctor will reduce pain and accelerate healing.
- Elevating your head while sleeping is particularly helpful in reducing swelling. Therefore, you may prefer to sleep with extra pillows.
- Eating soft foods also helps nourish your body without damaging the implant area. Foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and scrambled eggs will not strain your teeth and will facilitate healing.
What to consider during the first week?
The first week is a crucial phase of the healing process. It's crucial to take the medications prescribed by your doctor regularly. Furthermore, avoiding smoking and maintaining good oral hygiene will reduce the risk of infection. Adequate rest is essential for your body to heal, so make sure to rest during this time.
When should I see a dentist?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see your dentist immediately:
- Severe pain lasting longer than a week
- Unrelieved swelling
- Persistent bleeding
- Signs of infection, such as fever, pus, or a foul odor
- Difficulty biting or chewing
These symptoms can be a sign of potential complications and may require immediate intervention.
Monitoring your healing progress and seeking professional support if you have any concerns is critical to a successful treatment.
Conclusion
Pain after dental implant surgery is usually a short-term discomfort. With proper care and management, you can easily overcome this pain. Accurate information and professional support are crucial on your journey to a healthy smile. Remember, at Medical Dental Turkey, we're here to help!
If you're considering dental implants in Antalya, Turkey or experiencing post-procedural pain, contact us immediately for professional support. Our expert team is here to provide you with the best care and a comfortable recovery!