Dental implants in Spokane, WA are a popular dental procedure that can offer a number of benefits over other dental procedures. However, many people are hesitant to get dental implants because they are afraid of the pain involved. In this blog post, we will discuss how painful are dental implants and what you can do to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are surgical procedure that involves placing metal posts or screws into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. The posts act as a foundation for dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth, several teeth, or all of the teeth.
Since it is a surgery, many people are hesitant to get an implant despite of it being beneficial. Some of the great benefits of dental implants include:
- Improved Appearance – Dental implants in Spokane WA look and feel like your own teeth. They are also designed to fuse with the bone so that they become permanent.
- Enhanced Speech – Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry of your teeth slipping or clicking.
- Durability – With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
- Improved Oral Health – Since dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth, your oral health is improved.
- Ease of Eating – Dental implants function like your natural teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with ease.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
The dental implant procedure usually takes place in two stages. In the first stage, the implant (a metal post or screw) is placed into the jawbone. It can take several months for the implant to fuse with the bone. During this time, you will be fitted with a temporary dental crown, bridge, or denture.
In the second stage, the dental implant is checked to make sure it has fused with the bone. Once it has, a permanent dental crown, bridge, or denture will be placed on top of the dental implant.
Does Dental Implants Hurt?
The level of pain you experience during dental implants in Spokane, WA, will depend on your individual pain tolerance as well as the type of dental implants you get. There are two types of dental implants:
- Endosteal Dental Implants – These dental implants are placed directly into the jawbone. This type of dental implant is typically more painful than sub-periosteal dental implants because the bone needs to heal around the metal post.
- Sub-Periosteal Dental Implants – These dental implants are placed under the gum but on top of the jawbone. This type of dental implant is less painful because the bone does not need to heal around the metal post.
Overall, dental implants are not as painful as many people think. However, you may experience some discomfort and swelling during and after the procedure. Your dentist will prescribe pain medication to help you manage any discomfort you may experience.
How Can I Make the Procedure More Comfortable?
There are a few things you can do to make dental implants more comfortable:
- Use a numbing agent – A topical numbing agent can be applied to your gums before the procedure to help numb the area and reduce discomfort.
- Use dental sedation – Dental sedation can help you relax during the procedure. There are different types of dental sedation, including oral sedation (taken by mouth in pill form), IV sedation (given through a vein), and nitrous oxide (also known as “laughing gas”).
- Take pain medication – Your dentist will prescribe pain medication to help you manage any discomfort you may experience. Be sure to take the medication as directed.
- Get dental implants from an experienced oral surgeon – Choose an oral surgeon who has vast experience in placing dental implants. This will help ensure that the procedure is done correctly and with minimal discomfort. It will also give you a certain level of peace of mind.
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. They are durable, look and feel like your own teeth, and can last a lifetime with proper care. The dental implant procedure is typically not painful and can be made more comfortable with the use of a numbing agent, dental sedation, or pain medication.
Getting Dental Implants in Spokane WA
If you’re considering dental implants in Spokane, WA, be sure to choose an experienced oral surgeon. Our team of doctors specialized in oral surgery and restorative dentistry at Avenue Dental Care have vast experience in placing dental implants. We will work with you to ensure that the procedure is done correctly and with minimal discomfort.
First, our team will create an individualized treatment plan for you, one that specifies your needs after the examination. The team then chooses the appropriate implant option based on our findings. There is no need to worry, as we are committed to being with you every step of the way. Your comfort and oral health are our priority. And with dental implants, you can be sure to have a smile that lasts a lifetime.
Schedule an appointment with us today, or visit our website to learn more! We are located in Spokane Valley and North Spokane, and we look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve the smile of your dreams.