Dental implants give people another shot at dental health. They are surgically inserted into the mouth to replace real teeth that are rotted and damaged. The procedure improves oral health and bite strength and can boost self-confidence.
Although implants offer many benefits, the journey is not easy. Depending on oral needs, implants are typically inserted across various procedures that can draw out for months. Patients must consider several factors, and pain tolerance is a priority for many.
What Does Dental Implant Surgery Require?
Dental implant surgery procedures vary depending on patient needs but the following steps are generally involved:
- The damaged tooth or teeth are removed.
- Bone grafting may be required if your jawbone is not strong enough to support the new teeth. The bone may be taken from another part of your body, or artificial bone may be used.
- The surgeon will open your gums and drill holes for the metal post placement. Then the patient undergoes a waiting period wherein the jawbone grows to unite with the implant’s surface.
- After jawbone growth is complete, the oral surgeon will reopen your gums to attach the abutment to the metal post.
- The artificial tooth is attached to the abutment after a two-week healing period.
Does Dental Implant Surgery Hurt?
During surgery, surgeons will typically numb the patients’ gums and jawline. Therefore, the procedure itself should not hurt. However, patients may experience pain and swelling as their gums heal.
The initial healing period typically takes one to two weeks depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s medical state. After that, the pain should subside. A doctor will typically prescribe extra-strength painkillers to dull the pain. However, certain complications can make the recovery more painful.
Persistent Pain After Dental Implant Surgery
A case published in the Journal of the American Dental Association discusses a woman who experienced persistent pain after implant surgery.
The 48-year-old woman, who was pain-free before the procedure, experienced sharp pain during surgery. There was also persistent bleeding at the site during preparation.
After the anesthetic wore off, the site produced aching and burning pain and a sharp stabbing sensation upon contact interfering with her ability to kiss and drink. The pain persisted six weeks after the surgery when she returned to the surgeon.
The surgeon found that the implant was placed correctly and prescribed the patient analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs to promote pain relief. The patient’s medical history revealed issues with depression, anxiety, insomnia, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which may have contributed to the pain.
The surgeon advised the patient to wait to see if the pain resolved before consulting a neurologist or pain specialist. The study also stated that it is impossible to determine nerve damage or injury at the surgical area site. Providers should be on the side of caution and always consider that neuropathic factors may contribute to pain.
Neuropathic Pain After Dental Implant Surgery
A review and case report published in the Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology Journal further examined the possibility of nerve damage after implant surgery. It notes that persistent and chronic pain in the head and neck region is common, which adds complexity to cases in which patients complain of pain after implant surgery. It can be difficult to determine the true source of pain.
The review then discusses the case of a 62-year-old woman experiencing continuous pain after dental implant surgery. She was diagnosed with a pinched nerve and myofascial head and neck pain related to implant placement. Failed Dental Implants
Patients who experience pain after a dental implant may wonder if the implant has failed. An article published in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) investigates what constitutes a failure. The authors state that no amount of bone loss indicates an implant has failed.
The decision to treat, remove, or replace an implant is up to the provider and is typically made after extensive testing. It should not be made prematurely as reimplantation does not show as great a success rate as initial implantations. First reimplantation has 71% to 100% success rates while second reimplantation success rates range from 50% to 100%.
Prevention and Management of Facial Pain
Another study published in JADA involves 69-year-old women experiencing three weeks of facial pain following implant surgery. She complained of a deep, dull pain in her right upper lip scoring 8 to 10 on the pain scale. She had a history of general anxiety disorder and chronic pain. However, the surgeon could not identify any triggers or neurosensory deficits, and she had normal results in MRI testing.
The woman was diagnosed with idiopathic facial pain, a condition that is not well understood. Its onset could be related to implant surgery, but more testing must be conducted before providers can reach a diagnosis. Typically, the condition is diagnosed through a process of elimination that rules out other conditions.
Final Thoughts
Implants may cause ongoing pain, but in most cases, pain will subside within two weeks. Patients can minimize pain and reduce the risk of complications by following their surgeon’s aftercare instructions. Generally, this consists of taking the prescribed pain medication, following a soft diet, avoiding strenuous activities, and applying cold compresses if necessary.
It also helps to work with a qualified surgeon. An experienced provider will ensure proper procedures are followed. They will use a gentle touch to ensure patients don’t experience undue pain.
Find Skilled Implant Specialists in Tarzana, CA at 32ology
32Ology is a top choice for patients considering dental implant surgery in Tarzana. Our clinic specializes in everything from preventative to advanced dentistry. We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure optimal results.
Dr. Choi is an implant specialist known for his gentle touch. He has a history of successful surgeries. He has extensive training and hands-on experience.
Book a consultation with Dr. Choi to learn more about your implant options. He will help you make informed choices concerning your dental health.
Dr. Choi – Dental Implant Specialist in Los Angeles, CA.
32ology Dental Studio – Multi Specialty Dental Center
18740 Ventura Blvd., Ste 108 Tarzana CA 91356
(818) 776-1236
Serving : Tarzana | Sherman Oaks | Encino | Woodland Hills | West Hills | Reseda