Just hearing the name might make you wonder if dental implant surgery is painful. Every word; ‘dental, ‘implant’, and ‘surgery’ seems to imply pain and discomfort.

This can be a particular problem for anyone who already has a fear of dental work based on actual or perceived pain. But, as with just about everything, the more you learn about dental implant surgery, the less your understanding of it will be based on your fears and more on its benefits.

What is Dental Implant Surgery?

It is actually one of the most popular ways to replace one or more damaged or missing teeth. Basically, a dental implant replaces the root of the affected tooth. An artificial tooth or teeth are then attached to the implant to replace the original tooth.

Dental implant surgery isn’t a one-time procedure, but must be done in stages over the course of several months. This is because the first step in the surgery is to set a titanium implant into your jaw, similar to the natural root a tooth.

After the implant is put in place, it needs some time for your jawbone to grow around it to solidly hold it in place. While this is happening, temporary crowns are attached to the implant so you can eat and use your teeth as usual.

After the jawbone forms around the base of the implant, the temporary crown is removed and replaced with a permanent crown.

Considering they are set directly into the bone of your jaw, implants are incredibly strong, permanent and they don’t depend on surrounding teeth for support.

Who Should Get Dental Implant Surgery?

Your teeth and general health must be in good shape before dental implant surgery can be an option for you. As mentioned, the surgery is used to replace damaged or missing teeth, but it can also be used in other situations.

Support for Loose-Fitting Dentures and Dental Bridges

Dental implants will secure dentures and bridges so they don’t move in your mouth.

To Improve Facial Structure

Missing teeth can actually cause the jaw bone below them to lose mass. The loss of mass can be enough to affect your facial structure. Dental implants trigger your jaw bone to grow around the implant and restore the missing bone mass.

If You Suffer from Gum Disease

Gum disease can affect your teeth, gums and bone structure. In cases where gum disease results in loose or missing teeth, dental implants can be used to replace the affected teeth and restore lost bone mass.

When Crowns, Bridges and Dentures Are Not an Option for You

If you aren’t able to replace affected teeth using a dental crown, bridge, or full or partial dentures, dental implants may be a suitable alternative.

Let’s Get Back to the “Is Dental Implant Surgery Painful?” Question

As you now know, dental implants are put in place over a period of time. You’ll be comforted to learn that the initial surgery and placing of the implant is considered easier and less painful than removing a tooth. It usually only needs a local anesthetic so you can remain awake throughout the procedure.

The jaw bone into which the implant is placed does not have many pain-sensing nerves, which means no pain when properly numbed up.

Considering that it is a surgical procedure, you may experience some discomfort in the days following the implant. Any pain you feel during this time can usually be relieved by a common headache remedy.

According to the American Dental Association, “…the development and use of implants is one of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past 40 years.”

So, if dental implants are an option for you, there’s no reason not to take advantage of everything they offer for your dental and overall health. Contact us at myDentalcare here in Lindsay, Ontario, to learn more.