Ways Of Reducing Pain After Dental Implant Surgery
Because of the fact that dental implants in Richmond and elsewhere in the UK are placed during oral surgery, many people worry that they may feel a lot of pain following the procedure. Fortunately most people feel relatively little pain, if any, and any discomfort is usually short-lived and gone in a matter of days.
The dental implant procedure takes place either under local anaesthetic or with oral conscious sedation so nothing is felt during the surgery itself. However, once the anaesthetic wears off you may feel a little discomfort which can be easily managed at home.
The degree of discomfort varies from one person to another and depends on a person’s pain threshold and the complexity of the surgery. More extensive surgery such as multiple implants or bone grafts are likely to result in more discomfort and entail a longer recovery time.
Ways to minimise any pain
As with any surgery you are likely to experience facial or gum swelling, minor bleeding, bruising, soreness at the implant site, and depending on where the implant is, some discomfort under the eyes, chin or cheeks. All of these side effects should disappear within a week to 10 days.
It’s important to follow the post operative instructions given to you by your surgeon so as to improve your comfort and the time of healing. Here are some additional tips to improve any discomfort:
Painkillers – You may be prescribed medication but it’s a good idea to buy some over the counter painkillers just in case they are needed. These types of painkillers are best at preventing pain rather than reducing it, so be sure to take a couple of tablets such as Ibruprofen or Paracetamol before the discomfort becomes excessive. Be sure to use painkillers just for a few days.
Ice pack – Any discomfort caused by swelling can be eased with the use of an ice pack.
Limit activity – Physical activity immediately after surgery can disrupt healing. You need to plan on relaxing for the rest of the day after surgery to avoid discomfort and unnecessary bleeding. Then for the next few days steer clear of any strenuous activity. Light walking is fine but refrain from bending over.
Eat soft foods – To reduce pressure on your gums and jaw it’s best to eat soft foods to help your mouth heal quicker. Be sure to eat on the opposite side of your mouth so as not to irritate the implant site.
Report increased pain – Any pain should start to lessen after three days. However, if your side effects remain the same or increase after this time it could indicate the presence of an infection so call your dentist right away.
Dental implant surgery is more extensive than regular dental work but it needn’t be any more painful. To find out more about what is involved in getting a dental implant in Richmond why not visit our website at www.sheendentalimplants.co.uk/ or call us on 020 8876 5277 to book a complimentary consultation.