From Anxiety to Assurance: Why You Can Worry Less About Dental Implant Pain

When receiving any kind of dental procedure, the common concern among patients is whether they can expect to experience any pain. No one wants to be uncomfortable while sitting in the dentist’s chair, which is why dentists follow certain protocols and offer various comfort amenities to ensure a positive and relaxing experience. If you are worried about receiving dental implants because you fear they may cause pain, keep reading to find out what your dentist can do to help.

Will Receiving Dental Implants Hurt?

Dental implant surgery is an invasive procedure; however, it is unlikely that you will experience any pain. The reason is that before your dentist begins, they will administer local anesthesia to numb your mouth. This will prevent you from feeling any discomfort throughout treatment.

Although you will remain awake and aware of what is going on around you, the medication will stop any sensation of pain once your dentist begins to open your gums and place each titanium post into its designated spot along the gumline.

You might feel some pressure but nothing more.

Are There Other Ways to Prevent Pain?

Yes, even when receiving local anesthesia, you can ask your dentist about sedation dentistry. Many patients struggle with anxiety when preparing to undergo a dental procedure. If you are one of these individuals, you can inquire about the use of nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or IV sedation.

Based on an evaluation of your overall health and medical history as well as a discussion about any current medications you might be taking, your dentist can recommend which option will be best for you.

No matter which type of sedation you receive, you can expect its effects to keep you calm and unfazed by what is happening inside your mouth.

What You Can Do to Minimize Discomfort During Recovery

Eventually, the anesthesia and sedation will wear off. This means that you will need something to help minimize any discomfort you experience.

Your dentist may prescribe a pain medication you can take at home, or you can purchase an over-the-counter pain reliever to be used as directed. Cold compresses, plenty of rest, and eating soft foods can also reduce soreness during recovery, as your mouth will need time to heal.

Everyone’s recovery experience is different, so it’s important that you follow your dentist’s instructions to avoid complications or delays.

Turning to dental implants to rebuild your smile is a decision you will not regret. From your consultation to your recovery, you can trust that your dentist will do everything they can to help you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the process.

About the Author
Dr. Bianca Sanchez is a dentist in San Antonio who earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center School of Dentistry in Houston. Her desire to learn more and expand her skillset has led her to complete countless hours of continuing education courses, specifically in dental implants. Trained to provide the start-to-finish procedure in-house, patients never need to worry about referrals or the potential for pain during treatment. If you are considering these permanent prosthetics to fill your incomplete smile, visit our website or call (210) 690-2727 to find out how we can help.