What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. The implant itself is typically made of titanium, a material that is biocompatible and fuses well with the bone.
The process of getting dental implants
Getting dental implants involves several steps. First, the dentist will perform a thorough examination of your mouth and jawbone to determine if you are a suitable candidate for implants. If you are a good candidate, the next step is to surgically place the implant into your jawbone. After the implant is placed, a healing period of several months is required for the implant to fuse with the bone. Once the implant has fused, an abutment is placed on top of it, which will serve as the attachment point for the replacement tooth or bridge. Finally, the dentist will create and attach the replacement tooth or bridge to the abutment.
Does getting dental implants hurt?
One of the most common questions people have about dental implants is whether the procedure is painful. The truth is, dental implant surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. After the surgery, some discomfort and swelling are normal, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Most patients find that the pain and discomfort are manageable and subside within a few days. It's important to follow your dentist's post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize any discomfort.
Factors that can affect pain levels
While the majority of patients do not experience significant pain during or after dental implant surgery, there are some factors that can affect pain levels. These factors include the complexity of the case, the skill of the dentist, and the individual pain tolerance of the patient. In some cases, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be necessary, which can increase the discomfort and recovery time. It's important to discuss any concerns you have about pain with your dentist so they can provide appropriate pain management strategies.