Do Dental Implants Hurt? 7 Myths About Implant Surgery
Missing teeth can affect a person’s confidence, the ability to smile and eat comfortably, and overall oral health.
That said, it’s a condition that can be remedied with dental implants. A titanium screw is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The screw is like an artificial tooth root that is used to anchor crowns, bridges, or dentures.
As time passes, the implant integrates with the natural bone and mimics the stability and function of a real tooth to restore chewing and biting capabilities. Getting implants offers additional benefits too as they help prevent bone loss and stabilize the surrounding teeth and jaw tissue.
Even though dental implant surgery has proven to be reliable, what makes people hesitant to consider them? There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding implants.
How long do dental implants hurt? Do they hurt at all? Do they fail? Are they overpriced? Our goal is to help you cut through the myths one by one.
1. Dental Implants Are Painful
Do dental implants hurt forever? The answer is no. After the procedure, the post-operative pain is mild, and patients feel gentle pressure rather than sharp pain. This surgery is performed under local anesthesia, which results in little to no discomfort during the process.
How badly do dental implants hurt immediately after surgery? Over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication can help the patient manage postoperative pain and recover smoothly.
2. They Look Fake
Some people worry that dental implants will look unnatural or stand out oddly when they smile. Implants are custom-made to prevent them from looking fake.
We make impressions of your mouth and teeth so that we can make unique restorations that match your other teeth in color, size, and shape. The replacement is a crown, bridge, or denture that is held in place by implants.
It’s made of good-quality materials like porcelain or zirconia and has the same texture and shine as natural enamel. These materials last a long time because they don’t stain or wear down and the overall effect is as realistic as real teeth.
3. Implants Require a lot of Maintenance
Dental implants don’t require extensive maintenance. They are permanently sealed beneath the crown and need the same care as natural teeth.
In fact, their upkeep is simpler than that of dentures, which require removal and cleaning to prevent infections. Implants are immune to cavities but require good oral hygiene to prevent gum disease that might hurt stability. Routine brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups maintain longevity and health.
4. Implants Can Fail Easily
The fear of implant failure is a common concern, but it’s largely unfounded. Dental implants have a high success rate of 95%, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID).
They are made from biocompatible titanium compatible with the body and rarely rejected. While a very small percentage may not fully integrate with the jawbone, this is uncommon and can usually be prevented with proper care.
At Paramount Implant Center, we share good oral hygiene tips, and patients can follow the advice for implant success.
5. They Are Overpriced
Dental implants might cost more upfront compared to dentures or bridges, but their long-term value justifies the investment. Dentures and bridges need replacement every 5 to 10 years, but dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care.
The titanium post is incredibly durable, and the restorations (crowns, bridges, or dentures) can last 10 to 20 years. If patients properly care for their implants, it will also contribute to enhanced oral health.
6. The Surgery is Risky
Titanium implants have been in use since the 1960s and are not known to have any long-term implications. They are biologically inert and designed to integrate with bone with time. The complication risk is minimal, especially when strict infection control protocols are followed.
We use advanced software to ensure accurate placement, and surgeries are conducted in a clean and sterile environment.
As far as qualifying, we’ll work with you to make sure you always qualify for the treatment you need. The high success rate of dental implants showcases their reliability compared to other tooth replacement options.
7. Implants Make it Hard to Eat
Another myth is that dental implants make eating difficult when they are really designed to help you enjoy food.
There will be postoperative dietary restrictions as prescribed by dental professionals to facilitate proper healing and integration. Once recovery is complete, implants make chewing normal for the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
How bad does implant surgery hurt?
The procedure is painless because it’s performed under local or general anesthesia, which results in numbness. Once the anesthesia wears off, patients might experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
How painful is a dental implant uncovering?
There may be some minor discomfort and swelling, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
What does no one tell you about dental implants?
Dental implants are not only natural-looking but also cavity-free! This is a breath of fresh air for a lot of people who spend much of their life dealing with dental pain, issues, and costs
What is the pain scale for dental implants?
The pain varies from 1 to 3 on a scale of 10 for a few days after the operation and can be eased with pain medication.
What hurts more, tooth extraction or implant?
Tooth extraction is considered more painful than implant surgery, as it involves removing a natural tooth from the bone. Implants, on the other hand, cause minimal discomfort and pain.
Final Thoughts
Dental implants are a safe, time-tested, and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. By clarifying these common myths, we hope to ease any concerns you might have about the procedure.
If you’re considering dental implants, consult our qualified dentists to discuss your options and take the first step toward restoring your smile and confidence. With proper care, dental implants can provide a lifetime of benefits, helping you eat, speak, and smile with ease.