Are dental implants painful?

Dental implant placement can be performed under local anesthesia, dental sedation or general anesthesia and is not considered a painful procedure. However, if there is a need for additional surgery that involves bone or tissue grafts, there may be slightly more discomfort and swelling. If you experience any pain from dental implant surgery, there are several things that can be done.

In the initial first seven to ten days non steroidal anti inflammation tablets such as Nurofen, Advil or Ibuprofen, and panadol or paracetamol work well to alleviate any pain or discomfort you may experience. One can reduce inflammation and swelling by holding an ice-pack on the face, over the implant area. The application of the cold pack should be done for several hours with breaks every 10 minutes to allow the tissues to recover. The surgery area will be tender for the first few days. We often recommended that you rinse your mouth with a mouthrinse containing chlorhexidine to keep it clean. On the first day or two have soft foods like ice cream, yogurt, and soft food since your gums will be tender and avoid eating hard foods.  Even though dental implants are a relatively straightforward treatment. Many people take time off from work to have dental implant surgery, and then return to their regular activities.

Typically people return for a follow-up appointment about two weeks after surgery. When they come, they often say that getting a dental implant was one of the least painful procedures they’ve experienced. Please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Kaufman or Tooronga Family Dentistry, phone number 98227006, for further details or make an appointment to plan your implant.