Implant-based restorations have long been considered the gold standard of missing tooth replacement but one of the questions that most people want to know is do tooth implants hurt? Our No Gaps Dental teams have been placing dental implants into the jaws of patients for decades and for many people, it represents a life-changing procedure, but understandably, there is some uncertainty for those considering dental implants surrounding dental implant pain. So in this post, we’re going to set the record straight and talk about what you can and should expect.
The two phases of a dental implant procedure
Whenever we talk about dental implant pain or implant discomfort we need to consider the dental implant procedure as two phases or stages.
- The surgical phase and
- The recovery phase
The surgical phase is obviously the placement of a dental implant into the jawbone at the missing tooth site while the recovery phase covers both the post-op recuperation period and the period of osseointegration (essential bone fusion needed to provide implant stability).
So let’s take the first stage as this is the part that most people associate with dental implant pain
You may be surprised to know that during this part of the tooth implant process patients feel little or no discomfort. Due to huge advancements in technology, sedation techniques and know-how, dental implant surgery is a comfortable and in many cases, speedy procedure.
This is primarily because modern technology allows for treatments to be meticulously planned in advance so the placement of a dental implant is usually a formality. But also, the latest sedation techniques allow patients to remain conscious but relaxed. In most cases, the patient won’t even realise that the surgery has been completed.
So do tooth implants hurt during dental implant surgery?
The answer has to be no. It is in fact a surprisingly comfortable experience for the vast majority of patients.
But what about the recovery phase?
As with any surgical procedure, and dental implants are no exception, patients may feel a little discomfort. If you think about it, your jaw has had a small metal rod placed into it. So it’s understandable that there may be some slight bruising and swelling in and around the implant site. This is totally natural and is the body’s way of healing itself. Also, it’s highly likely that a patient will feel tenderness in and around the jaw area.
Again, this is nothing to worry about and will typically dissipate within a few days. In any case, your dentist will prescribe a course of antibiotics to help eradicate any swelling or bruising and may also suggest the use of cold compresses to bring out any bruising.
Typically, when patients do feel discomfort, it can be brought under control using over-the-counter pain killers such as ibuprofen and aspirin.
If after dental implants surgery discomfort lingers or isn’t able to be controlled using the above medication then it’s advisable to re-connect with your implant dentist who will advise you of what you need to do.
So how long does post-op dental implant pain last?
Naturally, this will depend upon the number of dental implants placed and the complexity of your case. In some cases, for instance, it isn’t unheard of for a patient with a straightforward dental implant placement to be back at work the next day. On the other hand, those in need of multiple dental implants may need 2-3 weeks to fully recover.
Dental implants recovery part 2 – Osseointegration
Perhaps, the most important part of the whole dental implant process is osseointegration. This is in essence the natural act whereby the surrounding bone tissue fuses with the titanium implant to create a super-strong foundation. This foundation is then able to support a dental crown, a dental bridge or (as one of several dental implants) an entire fixed denture.
Osseointegration typically takes place over a period of 3-6 months and is the main reason why a dental implant procedure in its entirety takes as long as it does. The good news for patients is that this process isn’t felt and patients should be able to go about their normal daily lives during this time.
So there you have it. Hopefully, we’ve answered the question do tooth implants hurt as honestly as we can but do bear in mind that we can only give a general account.
There are occasions where dental implants can hurt but this has less to do with the surgery and recovery periods and more about what happens next. Let’s take a look…
Dental implants and discomfort – When can it become a problem?
Dental implants are like natural teeth in so many ways. They become a permanent fixture in the mouth, they give you the ability to bite and chew food without compromise and unfortunately, just like natural teeth they can also become prone to infection
Peri-implantitis, for example, is an infection that attacks the gums and bone surrounding a dental implant. If left it can cause swelling which can lead to great discomfort in the worst-case scenarios.
Prevention is key and by practising good oral hygiene there is no reason why your dental implants can’t stay both healthy and pain-free.
If you would like to find out more about whether tooth implants hurt or you are considering dental implants but aren’t quite sure, then book a free consultation with the No-Gaps Dental team. At a Sydney clinic of your choice, we will explain the process, give you all the information you need and answer any questions you have, enabling you to make a fully informed decision.
Book an appointment online or call us on (02) 8806 0227. Kickstart your journey towards a healthier life-changing smile and a happier you.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.