Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option in the UK. According to an estimate, over 238,000 dental implant procedures were performed in the UK in 2022 alone. This number is expected to rise significantly over the years. If you’re also considering dental implants for replacing your missing teeth, you must have several questions about this treatment option in mind. One of the commonly asked questions about dental implants is “Does it hurt to have dental implants?”
If you’re searching for an answer to this question, then you have come to the right place. This blog will provide everything you need to know about dental implants and will answer all your questions.
What Are Dental Implants?
According to the British Association of Oral Surgeons, an implant is a substitute for a natural tooth. An implant is essentially a screw-shaped titanium fixture which is inserted into the jawbone and serves as an artificial tooth root.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are inserted into the jawbone just like natural teeth. Over time, they promote bond formation around them and get firmly anchored. This allows them to support a suitable prosthesis, such as a dental crown, denture, or bridge, to replace misisng natural teeth.
What Is The Procedure For Getting Dental Implants?
The dental implant placement procedure is typically completed in multiple stages:
- Initial Consultation and Treatment Planning – During your first appointment, your dentist will perform a detailed clinical examination. They will examine your existing natural teeth and record the number and position of your missing ones. Based on this information, they will prepare a detailed treatment plan, including the position and number of implants required to replace your missing teeth.
- Implant Procedure – At your next appointment, your dentist will perform the implant placement procedure. First, they will numb the area to make you pain-free. Next, they will drill holes in the jawbone at sites where the implants need to be inserted. They will then carefully screw in the implant at pre-determined locations.
- Implant Healing – Once the implants are in place, your dentist will place a healing collar over them to ensure undisturbed healing. This ensures optimal bone growth around the implant so that it gets firmly anchored. This process is called osseointegration.
- Implant Loading – At the final appointment, your dentist will place a suitable restoration over the implant to complete the artificial tooth structure.
Do Dental Implants Hurt?
Dental implant placement is a surgical procedure which may cause some pain or discomfort. However, your dentist will administer local anaesthesia to ensure that you remain pain-free throughout the procedure.
I Have Dental Anxiety. Should I Get Dental Implants?
Having dental anxiety does not mean that you cannot get quality dental care. If you suffer from dental anxiety, you should let your dentist know. They will prepare a customised treatment plan for you and take measures to keep you calm and relaxed. Sometimes, dentists may also consider performing the procedure under conscious sedation. In this, your dentist will administer an oral or intravenous (IV) sedative before the procedure, which makes you drowsy. As a result, you will become drowsy but conscious enough to respond to your dentist’s instructions.
Is Dental Implant Surgery Less Painful Than Dentures?
The procedure for dentures typically doesn’t require any surgical intervention. An exception is when you need to undergo additional surgery to restore bone volume or health. On the other hand, dental implant surgery may cause some pain or discomfort. This is typically prevented by the administration of local anaesthesia.
How Do Implant Dentists Make Implant Surgery Pain-Free?
For single implant placement, your dentist will ensure that you remain pain-free by administering local anaesthesia. In cases where multiple implants need to be placed, your dentist may consider performing the procedure under general anaesthesia.
What Hurts More: Tooth Extraction Or Dental Implants?
The procedures for both dental implants and wisdom tooth extraction involve surgery. This means that one may experience some pain or discomfort. However, you don’t have to worry as your dentist will administer local anaesthesia to counter pain during the procedure. Furthermore, they will also prescribe painkillers such as Ibuprofen to provide post-operative pain relief.
What To Expect After Dental Implant Surgery?
You may experience slight pain or swelling around the implant site. This is nothing to worry about, and it should go away in a few days. Your dentist will provide instructions regarding post-operative oral hygiene care. They will also prescribe over-the-counter medication to alleviate the swelling and discomfort. You may also place ice packs over the affected area to reduce the swelling.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Yes, dental implants are a safe tooth replacement option, as long as a qualified dentist performs the procedure. Many novice dentists use substandard implants to cut treatment costs, which can lead to long-term complications and even implant failure. So, it is always a good idea to go to a qualified dentist who uses high-quality dental implants.
How To Find The Best Implant Dentist In Essex?
When it comes to replacing teeth with implants, it is crucial to visit a renowned and experienced implant dentist. If you are looking for the best implant dentist in Essex, you should visit Harrow Dental Practice and Dental Implant Centre for all your dental care needs. We take pride in having the best team of dentists with extensive experience in aesthetic tooth replacement with dental implants. Click here to make an enquiry and let us give you a healthy and lasting smile.