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Pain is one of the most common concerns people have about dental implants. The truth is that most patients experience only mild discomfort during recovery.
In this blog, we will explain what the procedure involves, what to expect during recovery, and how to manage pain as you heal.
Most patients find dental implant surgery surprisingly manageable. With sedation, careful post-op care, and proper pain management, discomfort is typically mild and short-lived.
Our Role in Your Dental Implant Treatment
At Morris Dental Solutions, Dr. Gary Morris and Dr. Jeffrey Chen restore dental implants using custom crowns, bridges, and dentures and repair existing dental restorations.
We do not perform the surgical procedure ourselves. For dental implant surgery or bone graft procedures, we refer you to trusted oral surgeons or periodontists in the Buffalo Grove area. After healing, you return to us for your final restoration.
What You Will Feel During Dental Implant Surgery
The implant placement itself involves minimal pain due to local anesthesia. You may feel pressure, vibration, movement, or hear sounds, but not pain.
For patients with dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex or a low pain threshold, sedation options will be discussed with you. Your care team will help you choose the right level of comfort for your needs.
What About Pain After Surgery?
Post-surgery discomfort is common, but it is usually mild. Most patients describe it as:
- Mild to moderate soreness, similar to what you might feel after a tooth extraction.
- Tenderness and swelling around the gums or jaw.
- Minor discomfort during the healing process, which usually improves within three to five days with proper care.
In some cases, you may also notice slight bruising or jaw stiffness, but these symptoms gradually fade as your mouth heals.
How to Relieve Pain From Dental Implant
Proper aftercare helps reduce post-procedure pain and support oral health.
- Take OTC pain medication or prescribed pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen help reduce swelling and discomfort. Your surgeon may prescribe you prescription pain medications. Always follow the dosage instructions exactly as directed to ensure safe and effective relief.
- Apply cold compresses or an ice pack: Use an ice pack wrapped in a towel on your cheek in 15-minute intervals (15 min on, 15 min off) during the first 48 hours to manage swelling.
- Eat soft foods: Stick to soft, cool foods like smoothies, mashed potatoes, and applesauce. Avoid hard or spicy foods to minimize irritation.
- Rest and limit movement: Let your body focus on recovery and avoid bending, lifting, or strenuous activities for a few days.
- Keep the area clean: Use gentle rinses and follow your dental team’s instructions for keeping the surgical site healthy.
Your surgeon will give you specific instructions to follow and will provide instructions on dental hygiene after surgery. Follow their instructions and call them if you have any concerns.
When Pain Is a Sign of a Problem
Pain should improve, not worsen, as the healing process continues.
Call your surgeon if you notice:
- Severe pain or worsening discomfort beyond a few days
- Swelling that spreads or persists
- Fever, pus, or a foul taste in your mouth
These could indicate complications such as infection or implant failure. Timely treatment is essential to protect your oral health.
Restore Your Smile with Us in Buffalo Grove, IL
If you are ready to restore your smile after implant surgery or need a repair to an existing restoration, our team is here to help. We offer personalized care, high-quality materials, and results that blend beautifully with your natural teeth.
To schedule an implant consultation at our dental office in Buffalo Grove, IL, call (847) 215-1511 or visit us at 195 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Suite 160, Buffalo Grove, IL.
FAQs
Most patients feel minor discomfort for a few days. Pain levels are often lower than expected and improve with cold compresses, soft foods, and over-the-counter medications.
Most patients are surprised by how little discomfort they feel during the procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area completely, so you should not feel pain while the implant is being placed. You may notice some pressure or movement, but not sharp pain. Sedation options may also be available if you feel anxious about the procedure.
Pain should gradually improve as you heal. If your discomfort increases after a few days or becomes severe, it may be a sign of infection or another complication. Contact your oral surgeon or dentist right away to have the area evaluated.
This part of the entire process is typically pain-free. Once the titanium posts have fused with your jawbone, placing the abutment and final crown involves no drilling or incisions. You may feel light pressure, but not pain. Minor gum tenderness is normal but resolves quickly.
