Dental implants are extremely popular, with over 400,000 implants performed each year.
Once the surgery is over you’re left with a gleaming smile and…some pain? But how long should you expect to feel the pain after dental implant surgery?
Let’s take a look at a pain timeline for dental implants and what to expect afterward.
Dental Implants: How Sore Will You Be?
Thankfully, anesthesia covers all the pain you may experience during the surgery itself. But once the medicine wears off, what then?
It’s important to note that not everyone will heal the same way. People experience pain in varying ways.
A couple of hours after the anesthesia wears off, you may start to feel some soreness at the sight of implants, and perhaps notice a little blood as well. This blood is completely normal. Your doctor will give instructions about eating, drinking, and regular oral hygiene, such as foods that are ok to eat and drink, and how to brush.
After 24 hours, you may experience some more intense pain, like swelling. Your dentist will advise you on medications you can take and ways to reduce swelling if it occurs. Swelling could continue for up to three days after surgery and fully subside in a week or so.
Once you’ve hit the two-week mark, you should be in good shape, though pain may continue off and on during that time. You can likely resume regular eating and other activities as long as you don’t have any extra bleeding or pain. Always follow your dentist’s instructions for a full recovery.
If you’re having pain past two weeks, contact your dentist.
Reasons For Pain
The surgery itself may not be the only cause for pain when it comes to dental implants. There are a variety of problems that can occur after surgery that can cause pain:
- Infections
- Nerve damage
- Problems with the implant such as a loose implant or screw
- Implant incorrectly placed
Dental implants have over a 90% success rate, so if you suspect something is wrong, always contact your dentist.
Persistent Pain
Ideally, you should be completely pain-free and able to use your dental implants as normal 14 days after surgery. However, this isn’t always the case.
Pain that exceeds the 14-day mark should always be evaluated, but if you’re having pain months or even years post-surgery, something could be seriously wrong.
Problems like the emergence of an autoimmune disease, teeth grinding, lack of blood supply to the implant, allergic reactions, infections, rejection of the implant, smoking, ignoring oral hygiene routines, and more, are all reasons for pain.
It’s very rare for people to have pain so long after the implant has been inserted, but it does happen. These are severe cases and need immediate attention.
Rooting for Dental Implants
A dental implant can be painful, but the pain is temporary and usually manageable and minimal. With some rest, pain medications, and patience, you’ll be back to your (new) self in no time!
Are you looking for a dentist in California that specializes in cosmetic dentistry? Our team of professionals can help! Contact us today!
