If you’ve ever thought about getting dental implants, chances are you’ve asked yourself this question: Do dental implants hurt? Even more so, if they do, how badly do they hurt, and for how long?  These are all fairly common concerns and valid ones! After all, any procedure involving surgery tends to trigger a bit of anxiety, especially when it comes to something as sensitive as your mouth.

At LA Wilshire Perio, our goal is to make you feel informed, educated, and comfortable throughout your entire experience, from consultation to recovery. That being said, let’s take a closer look at what really happens and what it really feels like.

 

Do Dental Implants Hurt? Understanding the Experience

Let’s cut right to the chase: the dental implant procedure itself should not hurt. During the procedure, your dentist or periodontist will use local anesthesia to completely numb the area. Most patients report feeling pressure or mild movement but no actual pain during the surgery.

Once the anesthesia wears off, some post-procedure discomfort is normal. In fact, the primary symptoms of mild swelling, tenderness, and minor bruising are typical of what you might feel after a tooth extraction. However, most patients find the recovery process manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication when needed.

 

How Long Does Discomfort Last After Getting Dental Implants?

For the majority of patients, discomfort following dental implant surgery typically peaks within the first 24 to 72 hours and begins to subside thereafter. You may still experience some tenderness at the implant site for a week or two as your gums heal, but this shouldn’t be enough to interfere with everyday activities, such as speaking, working, or walking.

By following your post-operative care instructions, such as sticking to a soft food diet, avoiding strenuous activity, and practicing good oral hygiene, you’ll speed up your healing and minimize discomfort. Our team will ensure that you receive personalized aftercare guidance to guarantee your recovery is as smooth and pain-free as possible.

 

Factors That Can Affect Your Level of Discomfort

 

Individual Pain Tolerance

Everyone experiences pain differently. What’s mildly uncomfortable for one person may feel far more intense to another. If you’re particularly sensitive, it’s a good idea to discuss pain management options with your dentist ahead of time. Sedation dentistry is also available for those who prefer to feel more relaxed during the procedure.

 

The Number of Implants

Placing a single implant is usually a quicker, more straightforward process than placing several at once. Patients who receive multiple implants may experience more swelling or soreness, especially if bone grafting is involved. But even in these cases, discomfort is usually short-lived.

 

Whether a Tooth Was Recently Extracted

If your implant is being placed immediately after an extraction, your body is already in healing mode, which might add a bit of tenderness to the process. Your dentist will take this into account when designing your recovery plan, possibly spacing out the timeline or providing enhanced pain management options.

 

Common Misconceptions About Implant Pain

 

“The Surgery Must Be Extremely Painful”

Thanks to advances in surgical technology, implant procedures today are significantly less invasive than they were in the past. Many patients are surprised at how quick and easy the experience feels. In fact, some report it being easier than getting a filling!

 

“Recovery Is Long and Miserable”

Most people return to work or their everyday routines the very next day. Discomfort is generally mild and short-lived. Any swelling can often be managed with a cold compress, while over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief, such as ibuprofen, will help alleviate soreness.

 

“Dental Implants Always Get Infected or Fail”

Infections are rare when the procedure is performed by a skilled specialist and the patient follows care instructions. At LA Wilshire Perio, we take every precaution to maintain sterile conditions and closely monitor your healing process to ensure optimal results. With proper care, dental implants have a success rate of over 95%.

 

Tips to Make Your Healing Process Even Easier

• Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies during the first few days.
• Avoid using straws, as the suction can disturb the surgical site.
• Gently rinse with salt water to reduce swelling and aid healing.
• Keep your head elevated when resting to minimize swelling.
• Avoid smoking or alcohol, which can delay the healing process.

The better you care for your mouth post-procedure, the faster your recovery—and the sooner you’ll be enjoying your new, confident smile.

 

Ready to Find Out if Dental Implants Are Right for You?

Contact LA Wilshire Perio today to schedule a consultation with our expert dental team. We’re here to answer your questions, ease your concerns, and help you take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.