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If you’re seeking a beautiful, reliable way to replace one or more missing teeth, you might be a good candidate for dental implants. Many experts consider these the ideal way to rebuild smiles because of their unique placement in the jawbone, which usually makes them stronger and longer-lasting than alternatives, such as traditional dentures or dental bridges.
But you might be afraid to get dental implants if you’re convinced the procedure will be painful. Continue reading to learn more about whether this treatment hurts so you know what to expect moving forward!
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are the only replacement teeth that involve surgically placing one or more support rods directly into your jaw. Many dentists have completed advanced training and have state-of-the-art technology to perform the procedure in the office, so you don’t always have to seek an outside expert for placement.
Then, it can take about 3 to 6 months to recover, as your jaw must produce enough new bone to fuse with these posts through a process called osseointegration. Once you’ve healed sufficiently, your dentist can make impressions to design a one-of-a-kind restoration, such as a dental crown, an implant bridge, or implant dentures, to rebuild your smile based on how many teeth went missing.
Does the Dental Implant Procedure Hurt?
You’re not alone if you’re interested in this treatment but have avoided scheduling a consultation because you’re convinced it will inevitably be a long or agonizing process.
But your dentist understands you might be anxious and will do everything they can to help soothe your frayed nerves. For example, in addition to numbing your mouth with a local anesthetic, many providers also offer sedation options, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or IV medications administered directly into your bloodstream. These can help you remain calm and comfortable throughout your appointment, so you don’t have to worry about potential aches until after they wear off.
What Symptoms Are Normal During Recovery?
It’s normal to feel sore and swollen for several days after your procedure. These symptoms often peak around the 3rd day after your appointment, then gradually start to subside. If your dentist doesn’t prescribe pain meds or antibiotics, it’s often safe to manage associated throbbing or inflammation by taking the recommended dosage of over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. You can also try applying a cold compress to the sore side of your face for about 10 minutes for a temporary, numbing relief.
If you’re unsure whether dental implants are right for you, your dentist can examine your condition and discuss the various options to help determine if you’re a good candidate!
About the Practice
Patients at Lancaster Family Smiles benefit from two outstanding dentists who are passionate about helping them build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Je, a Master of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, collaborates with Dr. Jeong, who is licensed to administer sedation, to provide a complete menu of services, including dental implant placement and restoration, under one roof. They use state-of-the-art technology for more accurate, comfortable results meant to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling the office at (469) 729-7707.