Dental implants replace the roots of missing teeth for a durable, lifelike solution to gaps in your grin. They can last a lifetime with proper care and are color-matched to perfectly blend in with the rest of your beam. If you are preparing to have implants placed, you may be wondering how they will feel in your mouth. Keep reading to learn about how implants feel and how the procedure works.
How Does the Dental Implant Procedure Work?
As the only tooth replacement option that replaces the roots as well as the crown of a tooth, dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone. They then fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, which makes them as durable and permanent as your natural teeth.
Before starting the procedure, your dentist will numb the area. This will prevent you from feeling any pain. If you need any additional help relaxing throughout treatment, you can also ask your dentist about sedation. Your dentist will make an incision into the gums so they can access the jawbone and screw the implant into it. It will then take four to six months for it to heal.
How Dental Implants Feel
You can expect some mild sensitivity and discomfort with dental implants. This is normal for any dental surgery. They will feel strange in your mouth until you get used to them, so eating may lead to some odd sensations. Your mouth should start feeling normal and your implants will feel as natural as your teeth within a week or two.
If you are in any pain or uncomfortable during the healing process, try applying a cold compress. This should help numb the area and lessen inflammation. Do this for 20 minutes three times daily. You can also take over-the-counter pain medication or gargle with a mixture of ½ a teaspoon of salt added to a cup of warm water.
If you’re worried about getting dental implants because you think they will feel strange, don’t be. They may feel a bit foreign in your mouth at first, but you will soon be enjoying a healthy, full smile that you’re proud to show off!
About the Author
Dr. Thomas Novak, Dr. Garrett Johannsen, and their team at Beacon Dentistry of Weatherford truly care about their Weatherford patients. They offer dental implants to patients who are missing one or more of their teeth and can give you advice on how to lessen pain and discomfort during the healing process. If you want to learn more about getting dental implants with Beacon Dentistry of Weatherford or to set up an appointment, visit their website or call their office at (817) 594-7302.