If you have missing teeth, you might be considering dental implants. They’re the most permanent replacement method, creating a smile that looks, feels, and functions just like your old one! However, it does require surgery, and that alone can deter people from moving forward with treatment. Are you nervous about the procedure? Don’t worry – here’s what you can expect during dental implant surgery in Coral Springs and why it’s much more comfortable than you may have guessed.
The Dental Implant Surgical Process
For some people, knowing what to expect during a procedure is enough to help ease their nerves. Here’s a quick breakdown of what happens during dental implant surgery:
- First and foremost, your dentist will inject local anesthesia to numb the area. The procedure will not begin until you are completely numb.
- Then, your dentist will make one or more incisions in your gums to expose the bone. They will create a space to insert the titanium post (dental implant).
- After the dental implant is inserted and secured, your dentist will place a cap over the site to keep it safe while it heals over the next few months. In some cases, stitches are needed to help the gums heal.
Is Dental Implant Surgery Painful?
Now onto the real question: is the surgical phase painful? Most patients report that it’s not as bad as they imagined it to be! Since local or general anesthesia helps numb the nerves surrounding the implant area, you should not feel any pain during the procedure. You might feel pressure, but it should not cause you discomfort. For patients with severe anxiety about the surgery, sedation dentistry is available to help assure a comfortable and relaxing dental experience.
What Can You Expect During Recovery?
Once the numbing effect wears off after dental implant surgery, you might experience mild discomfort. However, most people say that the pain is less than that of tooth extraction. It’s rare for patients to experience significant discomfort following surgery. In most instances, the pain is from an improperly fitted dental implant or an infection.
Here are some ways you can manage your discomfort and maximize the dental implant healing process:
- Diligently follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist
- Take over-the-counter pain medication (Advil or Tylenol)
- Regularly rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution to kill germs and promote healing
- Stay away from hot, spicy, or crunchy foods for the first 10 days to avoid infection
- Maintain good oral hygiene (brush gently near the implant site)
- Apply a cold compress on your cheek over the area where you feel pain
- Visit your dentist as directed
In short, dental implant surgery should not be painful. There are several ways your dentist can help you feel comfortable and at ease during your procedure. Ultimately, having a beautiful, restored, fully functioning smile is well worth the process!
About the Practice
Our team at Kulick Dental Group has the knowledge and expertise to deliver high-quality dental care beyond what’s anywhere else. We provide comprehensive, personalized, and modern dental services. If you’re interested in replacing your missing teeth, we offer dental implants to help restore your ability to smile, speak, and eat. With sedation dentistry, we can assure your experience is comfortable and painless. To schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (954) 341-0500.