Dental implant: is it painful?

The dental implants are artificial roots intended to replace missing teeth. They do not cause any allergic reaction and are made of biocompatible titanium. In order to respond to the pathology as well as the needs of each patient, dental implants come in different shapes and sizes. This diversity helps ensure perfect integration of the implant to achieve the best strength and longevity for the implant.

The dental implants allow you to regain normal chewing abilities while enjoying an impeccable aesthetic result. However, there is a strong apprehension regarding the installation of a Dental implant regarding the fear of being in pain. The question is: is this really the case? 

Discover : Surgery in Tunisia: everything you need to know from A to Z

Does a dental implant hurt?

Contrary to popular belief, the installation of a Dental implant is painless. It should be noted that this of course depends on the exact dental situation, as inflamed gums, for example, can be the source of unpleasant sensations, but this is not the case for the implant placement itself. 

The pose of a Dental implant can be compared to the placement of a filling for example, because it is less intense than an extraction or a root canal treatment. Certainly the idea of ​​screwing in an implant can be daunting, however this procedure is nevertheless a classic operation which does not cause any particular pain and moreover, this intervention is carried out under local anesthesia.

NB: Side effects such as swelling in the area that quickly fades may occur. 

The procedure: is it performed under anesthesia to avoid pain?

The pose ofDental implant is performed under local anesthesia. In this case, the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure since the area affected by the placement ofDental implant will be totally insensitive.

A healing period of 3 to 9 months, after the implant placement, must be observed so that the bone heals around theDental implant. Once osseointegration is complete, the second step is the definitive ceramic prosthesis which can be placed on the abutment of theDental implant and it is also painless. 

After implant placement: can you feel pain?

Various reactions may occur after the application of theDental implant and in the following days, which may be:

  • Edema:

It is a swelling of the gums and cheeks that is often very slight. This swelling is linked to the inflammatory reaction that follows any surgical procedure. 

  • Slight sensitivity:

This sensitivity always depends on the operating method used for the placement of a Dental implant. It is generally due to the detachment of the gum and not to the placement of the implant itself. Following the intervention, this post-operative pain will disappear easily following the taking of classic analgesics (painkillers) which will be given to the patient.

  • Hematoma:

This reaction is rare. It can also occur after a bone graft or major surgery. Hematomas are primarily caused by internal bleeding that persists after surgery.

Generally, the patient should have no postoperative pain, no swelling or hematoma, and their teeth should be resorbing, and this only a few days after dental implant placement.

To go further: Side effects of a dental implant

Dentures fixed on dental implants: do they cause pain?

At the end of the healing period, the dental implants are ready to receive the fitting of the definitive prostheses and it should be mentioned that this intervention is not at all painful. However, in order to get used to this new dentition, an adaptation phase of approximately 1 month is essential for all patients.

Moreover, many dentists recommend gradually reintroducing foods that are increasingly solid. This action greatly helps the patient to regain full chewing function of their teeth and can notice a real improvement in their daily comfort.

Our dentists are the best post-surgery companions 

To ensure the comfort of our patients, our dentists, who are professionals in the field, intervene quickly after the procedure to administer painkillers and anti-inflammatories. This way, the patient feels no post-operative pain and can resume their daily lives immediately after the procedure.

Likewise, to facilitate healing, our surgeons listen to patients and can recommend and give post-operative advice, whether in terms of oral hygiene or diet. 

During the healing period, patients are advised to eat soft foods to avoid putting excessive pressure on the implants. In addition, it is recommended to brush their teeth three times a day and use mouthwash to ensure their teeth remain healthy.