For 50 years, dental implants have been the most recommended method for replacing missing teeth. Despite their popularity — over 500,000 Americans get implants each year — some people delay the procedure out of fear it might hurt.
If fear of pain stops you from getting dental implants, here’s some reassuring news: Dental implants aren’t painful.
At Goodman Dental Center in Queen Creek, Arizona, board-certified dentists Brian Goodman, DDS, and Tanner Goodman, DDS, use advanced technology and techniques to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Dental implants aren’t the only way to replace missing teeth; dentures and bridges are options. Your dentist at Goodman Dental Center helps you explore each choice to make the best decision.
But if pain is your main concern, let’s clear up that myth. Dental implants can give you a natural-looking smile without pain.
Here’s what Drs. Brian and Tanner Goodman want you to know about dental implants.
Dentures and bridges can replace missing teeth, but they don’t mimic natural teeth or dental implants.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post inserted into your jawbone that’s like a tooth root. This post fuses with your jawbone, a process known as osseointegration, taking 3-6 months.
The post creates a sturdy foundation for the prosthetic tooth, providing a more secure fit than dentures, which only sit on your gums. Also, dentures don’t encourage bone growth, so you might experience bone loss with that option.
As your gums and jaw change, dentures may not fit well and could irritate your gums. Dental implants avoid this issue by staying in place.
Dental implants are ideal if you’ve lost a tooth due to injury or decay. They can also replace several missing teeth or even an entire arch.
The implant posts can support implant-supported dentures. These dentures are removable but firmly attached without plates covering the roof of your mouth.
Fear of pain may keep you from considering dental implants despite the benefits. Dental implants involve only minor discomfort, similar to getting a filling, thanks to modern techniques and sedation.
Whether you’re missing a tooth or need an extraction, the implant process involves several steps to keep you comfortable. The procedure starts with numbing the area.
You might feel mild discomfort after the procedure, including swelling, bruising, or minor bleeding. These symptoms usually subside in a day or two and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
We may prescribe antibiotics or stronger pain medications if needed, but many patients report no pain while their jawbone and implant fuse.
If the fear of pain has stopped you from considering dental implants, you can move forward without worry. Schedule a consultation at Goodman Dental Center to learn if dental implants are right for you. Call the office or request an appointment online today.
