The dental implant procedure requires several visits to your dentist, including surgery on a few occasions. Plus, you will need additional surgery if bone grafting is necessary to make your jaw strong enough for the dental implant. Many people are concerned about the pain they will experience during surgery, but in fact, you have little to worry about. You can receive an affordable dental implant in Waterloo without discomfort.
What to Expect During Surgery
Part of receiving a dental implant involves drilling a hole into your jawbone. Although this sounds painful, it is actually a simple process — it is even easier than tooth extraction, which you may have previously experienced.
You will receive a local anesthetic, meaning that although you will be awake during the surgery, your mouth will be numb and you will feel nothing. Furthermore, the part of the bone that holds the implant has few nerves. If you are likely to be anxious, you can request a sedative. This will help you become relaxed and make the surgery pass quicker.
Discomfort After the Surgery
You may feel some discomfort after each stage of surgery, although nothing extreme. Usually, patients are able to manage the pain with an over-the-counter analgesic. Your dentist will prescribe you with something stronger if it would be necessary.
You can also prevent discomfort by applying an ice pack to your face to reduce swelling and by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. Finally, minimize the risk for problems that will cause pain by following your dentist’s instructions closely. For instance, you will need to avoid contact with the implant, such as when you brush your teeth. You will also need to stick to a diet of soft foods for up to 14 days after every stage of surgery and you will need to avoid smoking.