Whenever you think of dental implants, what comes to mind first?
For many people, the word “painful” is likely one of the first adjectives to spring to mind. But is it really as painful as we think?
In this post, we’ll take a look at what goes into getting a dental implant, whether or not it’s actually a painful procedure, and how to ensure a quick and comfortable recovery.
Keep reading to learn more!
Contents Navigation
- 0.1 Is Getting Dental Implants Painful?
- 0.2 Are You Put To Sleep During The Procedure?
- 0.3 How Long Should Discomfort And Pain Last Following A Procedure?
- 0.4 What Are The Causes Of Throbbing Pain After The Dental Implant Procedure?
- 0.5 Infection
- 0.6 Nerve Damage
- 0.7 Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder
- 0.8 How Can You Minimize Tooth Implant Pain?
- 0.9 Final Thoughts
- 1 FAQs
Is Getting Dental Implants Painful?

Many people fear dental implants because they think the process will be painful. While it is true that dental implants require surgery, the procedure is usually quite quick and easy.
Dental implant procedures are typically performed using local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the implant, so you don’t feel any pain. But of course, every person is different, with varying levels of pain threshold.
Most people report feeling little to no pain during the procedure, while others report only minor discomfort, which can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. The recovery process is also usually short and uncomplicated.
In most cases, dental implants are a very safe and effective way to replace missing teeth. So if you’re looking for a new tooth replacement option, dental implants might be right for you.
Are You Put To Sleep During The Procedure?
When it comes to dental implant surgery, one question we often get is, “will I be put to sleep during the procedure?” The answer is that it depends on the sedation option you choose.
Dental implant surgery is a safe and routine procedure. In most cases, patients are awake during the surgery. However, sedation options are available for dental implant surgery.
The type of sedation that is used will depend on the patient’s health history, anxiety level, and the surgeon’s preference.
- Local Anesthesia: This type of anesthesia numbs the area around the dental implants. Patients who receive local anesthesia are awake during the surgery but do not feel any pain.
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation: IV sedation is another option for dental implant surgery. With IV sedation, patients are awake but relaxed during the surgery.
- General Anesthesia: With general anesthesia, patients are put to sleep during the surgery.
The decision about which type of sedation to use will be made by the surgeon and the patient before the surgery. Some patients with severe bone loss may need additional procedures such as bone grafts or sinus lifts.
How Long Should Discomfort And Pain Last Following A Procedure?
Dental implants can help improve your smile and dental health, but as with any surgery, there is some discomfort and pain associated with the procedure. So, how long should you expect discomfort and pain to last following dental implant surgery?
Generally, dental implant patients report feeling sore for a few days after the procedure. Most people report that discomfort and pain peak within the first 24-48 hours after the procedure. After that, it should start to improve gradually day by day. This is normal and to be expected.
Bruising and swelling may also occur around the implant site. Again, this is all part of the healing process and will subside in a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication can help to manage any discomfort you may be feeling.
It’s important to remember that everyone heals at their own pace. Some people may only feel sore for a day or two, while others may feel discomfort for a week or more. Contact your dentist or oral surgeon if your pain is severe or lasts longer than two weeks.
In most cases, however, dental implant surgery is a relatively easy and straightforward procedure with minimal discomfort and pain afterwards.
What Are The Causes Of Throbbing Pain After The Dental Implant Procedure?
While dental implants are a common dental surgical procedure, it’s not uncommon to experience throbbing pain after the dental implant procedure.
There are a few common causes of this pain, and it’s important to be aware of them so you can get the treatment you need.
Infection
One common cause of throbbing pain after dental implants is infection. When dental implants are placed, they create a small opening in the gum tissue. This opening can allow bacteria to enter and cause an infection.
Signs of infection usually include throbbing pain, redness, swelling, and warmth around the implant site. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist right away so they can treat the infection.
Nerve Damage
Another common cause of throbbing pain after dental implants is nerve damage. When the implant is placed in the jawbone, it can damage the nerves that run through that area.
Nerve damage can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the area around the implant. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist so they can determine if nerve damage is the cause of your pain.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder
TMJ disorder can cause pain in the jaw joint and muscles that control chewing. If you think you might have TMJ, it’s important to see your dentist or doctor so they can give you a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
While throbbing pain after dental implants is relatively common, it’s important to seek medical attention, especially if you’re experiencing severe pain or prolonged discomfort, so they can determine the cause and provide relief.
How Can You Minimize Tooth Implant Pain?

Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a more permanent solution than dental bridges or dentures. However, implant surgery can be quite painful for some people, and the recovery period can be lengthy.
Here are a few tips on how to effectively minimise tooth implant pain and provide good aftercare:
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods for the first week or two after oral surgery. Opt for soft foods that are easy to chew. Hot foods should also be avoided in the first 48 hours after dental implant surgery.
- Use an ice pack for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day during the first few days after surgery. This will help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Take over-the-counter medications for pain as needed, but avoid using aspirin as it can increase bleeding.
- Keep your mouth clean by brushing your teeth gently and rinsing with salt water. This will help to prevent infection and speed up healing time.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions.
By following these tips, you can minimise tooth implant pain and enjoy your new smile as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort after getting your tooth implant, don’t worry! This is to be expected and should subside within a few days.
However, if the pain persists for more than a week, don’t hesitate to contact a dentist at Darch Dental Care. We want you to enjoy your new smile for years to come, so we offer comprehensive post-operative care to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Please book an appointment online or call us at (08) 9515 4892!
FAQs
The short answer is that dental implant surgery usually takes one to two hours. However, the overall dental implant process – from start to finish – can take several months.
In most cases, dental implant surgery can be completed in one or two dental visits. After the dental implants are placed, it usually takes several months for them to fuse to the jaw bone. Once this process is complete, patients can then have their dental crowns or bridges placed.
With proper care, your dental implants will improve your quality of life.
The socket, or hole, left behind after a tooth is extracted usually heals within 3 to 4 weeks. However, the bone surrounding the socket takes much longer to heal.
For this reason, it’s generally recommended to wait at least six months after tooth extraction before getting dental implants. This gives your jawbone enough time to fuse with the titanium implant.
In some cases, your dentist may recommend that you wait even longer – up to 12 months – before getting dental implants.
Recovery from dental implant surgery can take several weeks or even months. This is because your jawbone needs time to heal.
During this time, you will likely need to eat a soft diet and take pain medication as required. You must also avoid putting too much pressure on your teeth and gums.
Your dentist may recommend dental implants if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Have a tooth that needs to be removed
- Have natural teeth that are cracked or broken
- Have a sore on your gums from wearing dentures
Dental implants can also be used to support a dental bridge or denture. This can help improve the denture’s fit and make it more comfortable to wear.
Patients with active gum disease, tooth decay, and certain medical conditions are not fit for dental implants because they have an increased risk for dental implant failure.