Dental implants are a type of dental prosthesis that is utilized to replace one or more lost teeth. These implants are able to imitate the look and feel of real teeth and are durable enough to last for some time. However, a question that many patients ask is: do dental implants hurt? Because of the use of anesthesia during the procedure, the answer to this question is typically no. However, some level of discomfort may be experienced after the procedure is completed. If you are considering a dental implant procedure, take a look at this guide, which details what to expect.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are surgically implanted tooth replacements that provide support for other types of dental fixtures and replace single teeth. Dental implants can sometimes require several procedures to install and may take some time to heal. However, if taken care of properly, these teeth can last for several years.
Dental implants are comprised of multiple parts. You can expect your dental implant to be composed of the following:
- Threaded post: The threaded post of the dental implant acts like an artificial tooth root. This is placed in your jawbone during an oral surgery procedure.
- Abutment: The abutment is a tiny connector post that is screwed into the threaded post and extends slightly beyond the gums. This section serves as the foundation for your new artificial tooth.
- Restoration: A dental restoration is a prosthetic that replaces one’s missing natural teeth. Examples of the subtypes of restorations include crowns, bridges, and dentures.
There are many different materials that dental implants can be composed of, including titanium and ceramics. You can discuss which type will be best for you with your dentist prior to receiving treatment.
What Are Dental Implants Used For?
Dental implants are employed to treat several different conditions that can affect the teeth. The following are conditions that dental implants are commonly used to address:
- Gum disease
- Cracked teeth
- Cavities
- Anodontia
- Bruxism
Dental implants are a very popular choice for restorative dental care. Millions of implants are given to patients each year in America alone.
Do Dental Implants Hurt?
During the actual procedure of installing your dental implant, you will be under the influence of some anesthetic and will likely not experience any pain. However, you may experience some soreness or discomfort following the completion of your procedure.
However, most patients will find that they are through with this element of the experience within a few days of their initial procedure. Your dentist may prescribe you pain medication to deal with the initial pain and discomfort you might experience following your procedure.
What Occurs During Dental Implant Surgery?
There are several steps you can expect to experience during your dental implant surgery. In general, the steps of a dental implant installation are as follows:
- Anesthesia is applied to the gums to ensure that the procedure is painless
- An incision is made in the gums to expose a cavity to place the implant in
- A small hole is created in the jawbone, which is widened until it’s the right size to receive the implant
- The dental implant is placed into the jaw
- The gums are repositioned to close the incisions and enclose the implant
After your procedure is complete, you will experience a healing phase where the implant integrates with the rest of the mouth. This process is known as osseointegration.
Risks and Benefits
It is important to understand the risks and benefits associated with receiving a dental implant. Generally, the risks of a dental implant are:
- Damage to pre-existing teeth
- Infection
- Delayed jawbone healing
- Jaw fractures
- Nerve damage
- Bleeding
- Sinus damage
There are many benefits to receiving a dental implant. Some of the reported benefits include:
- Enhanced chewing ability
- Enhanced smile
- Jawbone preservation
- Improved speech and enunciation
- Long-lasting results
- Renewed stability in the mouth
You can discuss with your dentist whether they think you would benefit from a dental implant procedure over the other types of dental work that are available. This will help you determine whether to move forward with the procedure.
Dental Implants in LA
The Smile Artists LA is dedicated to offering patients the highest quality of dental work. If you are looking for excellent dental care in Los Angeles, contact us today to set up an appointment with our cosmetic dentist.
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