I Can’t Wait to Get Dental Implants; Does the Process Hurt?

Tooth loss is a frustrating health issue that can lead to diminished confidence and difficulty speaking and eating as well as a host of oral maladies like jawbone atrophy, gum injury, and the loss of more teeth. Fortunately, dental implants can replace missing pearly whites with beautifully lifelike restorations while stimulating the jawbone to keep it strong and healthy. Here’s how dental implants are placed and what your dentist will do to ensure your comfort.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a dental prosthetic device that consists of a small titanium post, a lifelike and durable tooth restoration, and an abutment piece that anchors the other two parts together. Dental implants replace almost all the chewing power of natural teeth, and they can last for several decades or even a lifetime if they receive excellent care and maintenance. They also bolster confidence by allowing patients to enjoy smiling with full sets of teeth.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

After you are cleared to receive dental implants, you will be scheduled for a surgical appointment. Your dentist will begin the procedure by administering an effective local anesthetic to ensure that you feel no pain, and you may also receive dental sedation treatment if you need extra help staying calm and comfortable.

When your mouth is ready, your dentist will surgically insert the titanium post into the empty space left by the missing tooth. Then, they will seal the wound around the new implant. Most patients report that the process is more comfortable than having a tooth removed and that they can return to their normal activities the day after their procedure.

What Is Healing After Receiving Dental Implants Like?

While you can expect some mild discomfort in the days after your surgery, this will only be temporary. Your dentist will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help you enjoy a smooth and complication-free recovery period. These will probably include:

• Be careful when performing oral hygiene around the surgical area.
• Avoid chewing near the new implant.
• Refrain from spitting or drinking through a straw, as these actions can compromise the blood clot protecting the surgical site.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Stick to a diet of soft and mild foods of cool or lukewarm temperature, as hot, cold, spicy, acidic, salty, or crunchy items can irritate the healing tissues.
• Take medication according to your dentist’s instructions.

Don’t let tooth loss take the fun out of smiling. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out if dental implants can be a great solution for you.

About the Practice

Lancaster Family Smiles proudly protects and rebuilds the grins of patients of all ages. Led by Drs. Sam Je and Julie Jaeyoon Jeong, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys courteous service and genuine compassion in a welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. To schedule your dental implant consultation, contact the office online or dial (469) 729-7707.