Are Dental Implants Painful
DAVINCI
Are Dental Implants Painful
Understanding the Dental Implant Procedure
Consultation and Planning
A consultation is vital to identify if the patient can be a good candidate. During this appointment, the dentist will check the oral health. It involves a comprehensive evaluation of the teeth, gums, and jawbone. It’s also the time to discuss patients’ goals and customise a dental treatment plan.
Preparation and Placement
Healing and Osseointegration
Abutment Placement and Impressions
Final Restoration
After the new replacement teeth are created, the dentist fits them and ensures they achieve a proper fit and bite onto the abutment. Depending on the patient’s needs and the number of missing teeth, the final restoration can be a dental crown, bridge, or denture.
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Pain Management During and After the Procedure
Local Anesthesia
The use of anaesthesia is important during the dental implants procedure. It provides a numbing effect in the area that helps to minimise any pain or discomfort while the dentist works in the patient's mouth. Topical numbing agent is usually applied to the site where your dentist will inject and deposit the anaesthesia to numb the area where your dental implant will be placed. Once it takes effect, the patient should feel comfortable for the duration of the procedure.
Sedation
Sedation dentistry can often be beneficial for anxious patients. This medication can help them feel relaxed and carefree during the procedure. It's moderate-level sedation, so patients are technically awake except for those under general anaesthesia. Discussing your options, which may include oral sedation, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation, with your dentist is necessary prior to the procedure.
Pain Medications
If necessary, the dentist will prescribe pain medication after the dental implant surgery to help manage any pain associated with dental implants. It may work to alleviate any swelling or reduce the risk of infection. It's important to follow the prescription provided by a dental professional to avoid adverse effects of the medicines.
Ice
Applying ice packs to the affected area can be healing and soothing. Apply cold packs to the side of the cheeks where received dental implant. Do this for about 15-20 minutes with 20-minute breaks in between. This technique helps to constrict blood vessels and decrease circulation, which reduces inflammation as much as possible.
Over-the-counter Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain medication, such as Ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help relieve pain associated with dental implants. It's crucial to read and follow the recommended dosage as suggested in the packaging for safety purposes. While such medications can be an efficient way to help manage dental implants procedure pain, it's important to contact the dentist for further assistance if symptoms persist beyond a few days.
Soft Diet
Opt for soft and easy-to-digest foods, such as mashed potatoes, yoghurt, or oatmeal. Not only are they easy to eat, but they can also provide nourishment while healing. Avoid hard and crunchy foods altogether, as they can dislodge the blood clot forming at the dental implant site, which may delay healing time.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Are Dental Implants Painful
Will I be awake during the dental implant procedure?
Generally speaking, you are more likely to be conscious during dental implant placement. However, if you are anxious or fearful of the procedure, your dentist might discuss other options to address your anxiety. The dentist at DaVinci Smiles can provide a more detailed answer to this question during a dental implant consultation.
How long does the dental implant procedure take?
The average duration of the dental implant procedure itself can take between 60 and 90 minutes. On the other hand, the entire dental implant treatment can take 3–6 months to complete. This long time frame allows for osseointegration. Or the process by which the tooth implants slowly heal or fuse with the surrounding jaw bone. The length of the process of getting dental implants can vary depending on how many teeth require the treatment and other factors. An dental implant consultation with one of the experienced dentists at DaVinci Smiles can provide you with a specific timeframe for your dental implants procedure.
How long does it take to heal after a dental implant procedure?
It usually takes 5 to 7 days or a full week for all the discomfort and swelling to subside. However, it can still take 2-6 months for the bones and gums to fully recover and become stable enough for an artificial tooth to be placed. This healing process varies from person to person based on many factors, such as age and dental health. During this time, your dentist may recommend taking certain medications to help manage any pain associated with dental implants. Although it takes some time before you can enjoy your brand-new smile, with proper care and attention, you will be flaunting your beautiful results in no time.
Can I eat and normally drink after the dental implant procedure?
Following your dental implant surgery, you may experience discomfort in your mouth that can keep you from normal eating or drinking. During your recovery period, we recommend sticking with soft foods or those that require less chewing.
How long do dental implants last?
The average lifespan of dental implants is about 25 years or more. However, this may depend on several factors. It may include the condition of the jawbone where the metal posts are placed. It is also said that toothimplants that are inserted in the lower jaw have a high success rate than those in the upper jaw. On the other hand, according to one study, the life expectancy of the artificial teeth attached to dental implants is between 15 and 20 years.
Can I get a dental implant if I have other health issues?
Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, could be a potential roadblock. These serious medical conditions may interfere with the healing process after implant surgery and increase the risk of dental implant failure. Other serious health problems that may prevent a person from getting dental implants are bone cancer, thyroid disorders, chronic blood diseases, chemotherapy, and other radiation treatments. If any of these issues apply to you, you must discuss them with your dentist before deciding to receive a tooth implant.
Are there any risks or complications associated with dental implants?
Related to our common question, “Are Dental Implants Painful?” many are also concerned about the risks and complications of dental implants. Dental implants have been safely used to replace missing teeth for many years in patients with generally good oral and overall health. However, dental implants involve a surgical process. And as with any other surgical procedure, there are some risks. As we’ve mentioned, infection, nerve damage, sinus problems, allergic reactions, and implant failure are risks. While these complications are potential, most are relatively rare and small in number.
What are the potential complications and side effects of dental implant procedure?
It is important to always inform the dentist of any health conditions or allergies before undergoing the dental implant procedure. So appropriate steps can be taken to reduce the risk of complications.
- Infection:
One potential complication of dental implant surgery is a bacterial infection. Signs of infection may include redness, swelling, and pain in the teeth implant area. It may also be accompanied by fever and pus draining from the site. If the dental implant patient suspects this problem, we suggest contacting your dentist immediately. They will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection. - Nerve damage:
Nerve damage is another potential complication. The lips, chin, or tongue may start to feel numb, tingly, or burning. Symptoms such as these should be reported to the dentist as soon as possible once experienced. There are cases in which nerve damage is temporary. But, there are instances where it can result in long-term damage. - Dental implant failure:
It can occur when the metal post does not fuse with the bone or if the dental implant fractures. Common signs of this problem are when the tooth implant loosens or is wobbly. At first, the mobility may be slight and only recognisable by the dentist. Other indications can include pain at the dental implant site, swelling, or changes in the patient’s bite. - Sinus Issues:
The placement of dental implants in the upper jaw can pose a risk to the maxillary sinus, as they may puncture the sinus if placed too high. While this is rare and often preventable, it does come with potential complications such as infection, pain, and damage to the delicate tissue in the area. - Allergic Reactions:
While rare, there is potential for some patients to have an allergic reaction to the titanium that is used for dental implants. The most common signs can include rash and hives on the skin, itching, and difficulty breathing. If any of these symptoms occur, contacting the dentist is important.
How much does a dental implant cost?
Single dental implants start at \$4,000. But this can vary depending on several factors. The price can go higher if you require additional procedures before implants, such as a bone graft or sinus lift. For instance, a single dental implant with a bone graft may cost up to \$11,500. This is according to the 2020 Dental Fee Survey conducted by the Australian Dental Association, which provides a snapshot of the nationwide fees. We highly recommend booking a dental implant consultation with the dentist to get an estimated cost from the dentist.
Can I get a dental implant if I am missing multiple teeth?
Yes. Dental implants are a great option if you have lost several teeth or even all of them. There are a variety of options to replace multiple missing teeth with dental implants. You can opt for implant-retained dentures, which require fewer dental implants to support dentures, rather than individually replacing each tooth with dental implant. You may also use dental bridges supported by titanium posts if you have two or more missing teeth.
Are dental implants as strong as natural teeth?
The natural teeth are incredibly strong, but natural wear and tear, cavities, and gum disease can weaken the structure over time. When your natural teeth become badly damaged or decayed, dental implants can be stronger than your real teeth. They can restore the biting force and are less susceptible to cavities because of their metal nature.
But it’s important to remember that the artificial tooth attached to the dental implant can chip or break. Particularly if exposed to excessive bite pressure. That’s why taking maintaining good oral care is vital for your dental implants.