Losing a tooth can change how you eat, speak, and feel about your smile. If you are considering replacing teeth with dental implants, it is normal to worry about pain. Many people put off treatment with our Brighton, MI, dental implant dentists because they imagine the process will hurt more than it actually does. Fortunately, the reality of dental implant surgery is much more comfortable than most expect.
Whether you’re in search of or full mouth implants, understanding what the process feels like can ease anxiety and help you move forward with confidence.
The short answer is that dental implant placement isn’t much different than other related surgical procedures. The whole process is performed using local anesthetic that completely numbs the area being treated. During the procedure, you may feel pressure or vibration, but you should not feel pain. If at any point you are uncomfortable while , you can let our local implant dentists or assisting staff know right away so adjustments can be made.
Many patients are surprised by how manageable the appointment feels. The sensation is often compared to a filling being placed or a simple tooth extraction. Dental procedures should never be excruciating if proper steps are taken and pain medications are administered prior to getting started.
The process for getting a dental implant begins with careful planning. Imaging and exams allow our dentists to determine bone health and ideal implant positioning. On the day of dental implant surgery, the area is numbed, and the implant post is gently placed into the jawbone.
After placement, the gum tissue is closed and allowed to heal. For patients receiving implant-supported dentures, or hybrid dentures, this step creates the foundation for a stable and long-lasting result. A single-tooth dental implant follows the same basic steps, just on a smaller scale, and usually takes less time than expected.
The happens in stages. Initial healing typically takes a few days to a week. During this time, mild soreness and swelling are normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
The implant itself needs time to bond with the jawbone through a natural process called osseointegration. This requires patience as it can take several months, depending on your health and treatment type. No matter if you’re in line for implant dentures or single-tooth implants, the area needs to be fully healed before the final crown can be placed.
Some symptoms are expected after oral surgery. These include:
These signs usually improve steadily each day. They are part of the body’s natural healing response. Symptoms that are not normal include increasing pain after several days, excessive swelling, fever, or a bad taste that does not go away. If you notice anything unusual, contact our Brighton, MI, dental office right away so it can be addressed early.
Dental implants provide a stable, natural-looking solution that does not rely on neighboring teeth like traditional bridges. If you want a permanent tooth replacement option that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth, our dental implant dentists in Brighton, MI, can help you explore one of the most reliable choices available today. Call Schaefer Dental Group at (810) 229-2126 or contact us online to request an appointment.