Reviewed by Dr. Jason Fluckiger, DMD

Reading time: six minutes.

Are you hesitant to get a dental implant because you think it might hurt too much?

It’s a common concern, but the truth is that dental implants are often far less painful than expected.

In this blog, we will break down what happens during and after the procedure so you can face your dental implant decision with confidence.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

The dental implant placement itself normally shouldn’t cause pain due to the use of anesthesia. Some discomfort or mild pain may occur for up to 10 days after surgery, but it can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

What is a Dental Implant and Why Would You Need One?

Before we dive into the details of pain, let’s quickly cover what dental implants are and why they are a popular choice for tooth replacement.

A dental implant is a small metal post (usually made of titanium) that acts as an artificial tooth root. This post is inserted into the jawbone, and eventually, your bone grows around it, creating a stable foundation. A dental crown will be placed on top of the post to look and function like your natural tooth.

Dental implants are the best solution for replacing missing teeth because they offer stability, durability, and a natural appearance. 

The Dental Implant Procedure: What to Expect

The procedure generally follows these steps

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Your initial consultation with your oral surgeon. 

During this appointment, your oral surgeon will evaluate your oral health, jawbone structure, and overall suitability for a dental implant.

This is also your chance to ask any questions about the procedure. Your oral surgeon will provide an overview of your specific situation and outline the steps of your dental implant procedure.

Step 2: The Surgery

When you’re ready for the procedure, your surgeon will perform the dental implant surgery.

Here’s a breakdown of what happens:

  • Anesthesia and sedation: During the actual dental implant procedure, you will receive local anesthesia or sedation to ensure you don’t feel any pain. Your dentist will make sure that your mouth is completely numb before starting the procedure.
  • Placing the titanium post: A small hole is drilled into your jawbone where the titanium post will be placed. The idea of having a metal post inserted into your jawbone might sound intimidating, but remember: You won’t feel this part of the procedure because of the anesthesia.
  • Gums and healing: After the post is placed, your surgeon may place a temporary crown or leave the site open to heal. This healing period allows your bone to grow around the post, a process known as osseointegration.

Step 3: Placing the Dental Crown

Once the implant has fully integrated with your jawbone, it’s time for the final step: placing the dental crown. This is when your surgeon connects the visible part of your new tooth to the titanium post.

Is Dental Implant Surgery Painful?

As mentioned, the procedure itself shouldn’t be painful because of the anesthetic.

Most patients describe feeling pressure or minor sensations rather than actual pain. Your oral surgeon will make sure you’re comfortable throughout the surgery.

After the Procedure

The real question for most people is what happens after the anesthesia wears off

Here’s what you can generally expect:

  • Mild to moderate discomfort: After the procedure, it’s normal to experience some discomfort. This is due to the natural healing process. Most people report mild to moderate discomfort for a few days.
  • Pain medication: Your surgeon will usually prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen) to help manage any discomfort.
  • Pain levels vary: The degree of discomfort varies from person to person. Some patients experience only minor discomfort, while others may feel a bit more intense pain initially. Most post-surgery pain subsides within a few days, often within the first week.
  • Nerve damage concerns: Though very rare, there can be instances of nerve irritation or damage, which may result in prolonged discomfort. If you experience severe pain that doesn’t improve, it’s important to contact your surgeon immediately.

Tips for Minimizing Pain During Recovery

Here are a few practical tips to make your recovery smoother and minimize any discomfort.

  1. Cold compresses: Apply a cold pack or ice pack to your jaw for 15–20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and numb the area.
  2. Pain medications: Follow your dentist’s instructions about prescribed medications and over-the-counter pain relievers. Stick to the recommended dosage and schedule.
  3. Soft foods: Stick to a diet of soft foods like soups, mashed potatoes, and yogurt for the first few days after surgery. This helps avoid putting pressure on the implant sites.
  4. Good oral hygiene: Follow oral hygiene guidelines, including gentle brushing and rinsing with warm saltwater. Keep the area clean to prevent infection and promote faster healing.
  5. Limit physical activity: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous physical activities for at least 10 days. Give your body time to rest for the implant sites to heal more effectively.

What If Pain Persists?

If you find yourself experiencing persistent or severe pain beyond the first week, don’t ignore it. Contact your surgeon right away.

This could be a sign of infection, implant failure, or other complications that require prompt attention.

Early intervention is key to ensuring your dental implant remains stable and functional in the long run.

Trust Our Oral Surgeons for Your Dental Implants

When it comes to dental implant surgery, you deserve an expert who knows exactly what they’re doing—and that’s where our oral surgeons come in.

At AZ Max Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, we have a team of highly trained specialists dedicated to ensuring your dental implant procedure is safe, effective, and as comfortable as possible.

We are proud to have these surgeons on our team:

Each of these professionals brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, with a focus on oral and maxillofacial surgery. 

Here’s why working with an oral surgeon makes a significant difference in your dental implant journey.

Specialized Training Beyond General Dentistry

Oral surgeons undergo extensive education and training that go far beyond what general dentists experience.

While a general dentist may perform basic dental implant procedures, an oral surgeon’s expertise includes:

  • Advanced surgical techniques: Oral surgeons train extensively in complex surgical procedures, jaw anatomy, and facial structure, ensuring precise and safe implant placement.
  • Bone grafting expertise: Often, dental implant patients require bone grafting to strengthen the jawbone. Oral surgeons specialize in these techniques, using materials and methods that promote better integration and healing.
  • Anesthesia expertise: Oral surgeons have in-depth knowledge of sedation and anesthesia methods, ensuring your procedure is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.

Book Your Free Dental Implant Consultation!

To learn more about dental implants and what to expect, book an appointment at our oral surgery office in  Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe or Show Low.

Call (480) 830-5866 to schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons or complete the online inquiry form today!