No matter how much you fear the dentist, there comes the point when you will have to sit on a dental chair to solve your emergency dental issue. In the end, it’s not worth trying to fight away the pain without dental intervention. One of the major dental procedures that you might have to go through is the installation of dental implants. Though it looks painful, having a dental implant is one of the best dental restorations you can get. Aside from its natural look, it can also last for more than you might expect!
If you are scheduled for a dental implant, here are several important points you must know before and after the procedure.
How are dental implants installed?
A dental implant essentially replaces your permanent teeth with fake ones that look as natural as your own. It is done by making an incision on your gums and drilling holes on the jawbone, where the titanium screws will be installed. An abutment piece will then be placed on the titanium screw, and this piece holds the temporary crown in place.
However, take note that the surgery does not take place in one day. Instead, the dentist will first put in a temporary implant and let your surgery heal for a few months. Once it is fully healed, your dentist will replace the temporary crown with the permanent implant. Then, you can smile again as if nothing happened!
How painful is dental implant surgery?
Since it is a major dental procedure, you will be given pain medications before undergoing surgery, meaning that you won’t feel any pain. The dentist will also apply general or local anesthesia. In some cases, a patient will be sedated throughout the procedure, and the pain medication will support it if ever it wears out. Keep in mind that your jawbone also has no nerves, so you may feel the slight pressure of the drill and when the screw is inserted, but you will not feel the pain.
What should you do after the procedure?
After the surgery, your anesthesia will eventually wear out, and you may start feeling pain. Most patients complain of discomfort for ten days after the procedure, but an over-the-counter pain killer may help soothe the pain. You may also ask your dentist to prescribe your pain killers to prepare for the uncomfortable feeling. In addition, dentists may give stronger pain killers for patients with multiple implants installed simultaneously.
The pain should reduce as time passes and should no longer be painful after two weeks. However, if you still feel a disturbing pain in your implant area, you may be having a post-surgery infection. In this case, you must go back to the clinic if you need an emergency dentist to remedy the situation.
How to reduce pain after dental implant surgery?
Having dental implants is a serious procedure. Because of this, you need to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions strictly. You must also maintain your oral hygiene to prevent problems after the procedure.
Feeling pain is normal after going through dental implant surgery, but there are remedies to help relieve the pain. For the next 24 to 48 hours after the surgery, you should avoid using a straw and stick only to a soft diet. Then, use a cold compress to reduce swelling and gargle warm salt water solution regularly to prevent infection. You also must not eat anything spicy or crunchy for the first ten days. Lastly, keep track of your follow-up check-ups, and be sure to attend to them.
Conclusion
Over the years, dental implants have brought back smiles to many people. Now that you know more about this dental solution, it is easier to remain calm during the dental procedure. Do not hesitate to ask your dentist for more information and precautions before and after your dental implant surgery.
Dr. Thomas E. Cooke Family Dentistry is your go-to dentist in Raleigh. We offer emergency dental services and extensive dental solutions and restorations. Get in touch with us today to schedule your appointment!
