Do dental implants hurt after surgery? Facts of dental implant

  • International ClinicsInternational Clinics
  • 141
  • 15 November 2024

According to numerous research studies, tooth loss has become common, with approximately 69% of men aged 35-44 suffering from tooth loss. Therefore, a large number of people resort to finding a permanent solution for missing teeth, which is dental implants 

However, the question, (Do dental implants hurt forever?" remains a source of concern and fear for some and influences the decision to undergo dental implants.

 In this article. We provide you with a comprehensive answer regarding dental implant pain. We also compare the pain associated with the available options for dental implant surgeries and dental surgery pain management. And is it true that full dental implants hurt? So stay tuned for more.

Do dental implants hurt over time?

Dental implants generally don't cause chronic pain. Most patients experience some soreness or discomfort for the first few days, which gradually subsides within a week or two.

Since the person followed complete healthcare after the surgery, the level of pain felt is very minimal. Therefore, several factors contribute to the exacerbation of pain in some individuals, including:

  • Infection: When there is an infection in both gums and bones, this may lead to pain.

  • Implant Fracture: The inability of the implant to incorporate with the bone may cause discomfort.

  • Overload: Excessive pressure resulting from grinding or biting can stress the implant.

  • Gum Diseases: Diseases affecting the gums may cause pain around the implant site.

It is worth mentioning that the presence of continuous pain means the necessity to consult a dentist immediately, as it is not normal for there to be continuous and severe pain.

How long do dental implants hurt after surgery?

image explains the dental implants hurt after surgery scale level

To answer this question, it is necessary to understand the stages involved in the dental implant process, the purpose of each stage, and what to expect at each stage the patient goes through This is since in certain states, a small amount of pain is normal and signifies that the dental implants have successfully fused with the jawbone. The steps of the dental implant process include the following:

  • First, an artificial root made of titanium is implanted surgically into the jawbone. This step is quite critical because the implant needs time for osseointegration, integrating into the bone, which may take quite some time and cause some pain naturally.

  • After the implant has completely merged with the surrounding bone, an abutment will be fixed onto the top of the dental implant. This small connector will support the final restoration.

  • A crown is then screwed or cemented to an abutment after the gum has healed around it, colored, and shaped like the rest of your teeth.

After dental implant surgery, some discomfort is expected, and this generally will last for a few days up to a week. Here's a general timeline of what you might expect:

  • First 24-48 Hours: Pain and swelling are at their worst. Over-the-counter pain relievers or medications prescribed by your dentist may be used to manage discomfort.

  • 3-5 Days: Pain should have reduced substantially by this time. Swelling should also start to reduce.

  • First Week: By this time, most patients are feeling much better. Sutures can usually be taken out at this time.

  • Second Weeks and Beyond: By this time, most patients are feeling much better, although there may still be some slight sensitivity or discomfort due to continuing healing.

It seems you are wondering now. If dental implants do not hurt afterward, why do my implants hurt?

To answer you, we need to clarify the expected amount of pain after a dental implant procedure, and then you can assess your current situation and whether you need a quick medical consultation or if it's just a matter of time for the pain to subside.

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How much do dental implants hurt when put in?

Although the pain that dental implants can cause varies from person to person, it is typically characterized as tolerable. In this procedure, local anesthesia will help numb the area in order to minimize most discomforts during the surgery. Some soreness or swelling is common after the procedure, just like one can experience after having a tooth extracted.

Most patients can cope with over-the-counter pain medication for any discomfort, which generally settles within a few days. Your dentist will have advice on post-operative care to help you through the process of healing in comfort. This is called the postoperative pain dental implant management phase.

Dental implant pain management tips

Pain management is part of the treatment for a dental implant procedure. Later on, the patient can feel some discomfort, which may be influenced by surgical trauma or inflammation.

To reduce pain and swelling, analgesics are drugs that are typically prescribed as part of efficient pain management techniques. Additionally, post-operative care instructions to be followed by the patient might include applying an ice pack and avoiding strenuous activities, which would also help reduce discomfort and set up a smooth recovery process.

Do mini dental implants hurt?

image explains mini dental implants

Mini dental implants, being smaller and less invasively placed, are less painful than conventional implants. Any pain during the procedure will be minimal, as the area will be numbed with local anesthesia. Afterward, some mild soreness or swelling can be experienced; this can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Compared to full-mouth dental implants, most patients with mini implants typically recover more quickly and experience less pain. But, as stated earlier, different individuals may have different levels of pain thresholds, so it will be even better to approach your dentist and discuss the thing with him or her.

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Are there differences between dental implants hurting and denture pain?

A major difference exists between the pains of dental implants and denture pain.

Dental Implant Pain: There is soreness that one may experience at the site of surgery after the placement of dental implants. This pain usually emanates from the surgery itself, which consists of inserting the implant into the jawbone. The pain is usually temporary and can be managed by pain relievers. Most patients report that the pain significantly subsides after a few days.

Denture Pain: Problems with denture fit and pressure points are typically the cause of denture pain. Gum and soft tissue soreness from new dentures is not unusual, particularly if one or both have been improperly fitted. Dentures also become loose over time as the underlying bone shrinks and changes, causing irritation and discomfort. A denture worn for too long without being taken out can give rise to complaints such as inflammation of the gums or painful pressure points.

Overall, pain with dental implants is more often a matter of post-operative recovery, while denture pain more often concerns issues of fit and irritation with the device itself, which may last a long time.

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What is the dental implant success rate?

Dental implants work amazingly, usually with success rates from 90% to 95%. Among the factors that may affect the success rate are the general health of the patient, his bone density,  oral hygiene, and the site of the implant. Generally, implants at the bottom stand a better chance of their success rate being higher than their counterparts in the upper jaw because of the quality of the bone.

Many implants last a lifetime if they are properly maintained. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are important to the long-term success of dental implants. If you have specific concerns, discuss them with your dentist.

Tooth Implant Experience

image explains the tooth Implant Experience

It can be concluded from a variety of Reddit discussions about dental implants that the pain is typically not very severe. However, mild soreness or swelling develops after the procedure, which is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers, despite some users feeling that it is painful, primarily because local anesthesia was used. Overall, many feel that the benefits of dental implants outweigh temporary discomfort.

In our clinics, we offer the best post-dental implant care, overseen by a full-service medical team to keep an eye on patients' conditions and get the best outcomes. Don't hesitate to contact us now and book your free consultation!

Dental implant FAQs

How painful is having dental implants?

Most patients report that getting dental implants is not very painful because any pain is manageable following the procedure thanks to local anesthesia.

What hurts more, tooth extraction or implant?

Because implant placement is typically done under anesthesia and involves less trauma than tooth extraction, it typically results in less immediate pain.

What is the downside of dental implants?

Among the drawbacks of dental implants are their expense, the requirement for surgery, and possible issues like infection or implant failure.

How long does a dental implant procedure take? 

Although receiving a dental implant typically takes one to two hours, the integration and healing stages may cause the procedure to take months.

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