The dental implant process is usually straightforward and well-tolerated:

• First appointment: around two hours for the implant placement.
• Second appointment: up to one hour to fit the crown.

You may feel a brief sting from the anaesthetic injections, but once they take effect, the procedure itself is pain-free. After treatment, some gum soreness or mild discomfort is normal, especially the following day.

Compared to other procedures like bridges, dental implants are slightly more invasive, with a bit more drilling involved. However, thanks to effective anaesthetics, most patients report that the experience is simple and manageable, with only minor post-treatment aches that resolve quickly.

What’s the Procedure Like?

The dental implant procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, which ensures you feel little to no pain. During the treatment, the dentist makes a small opening in the gum to expose the jawbone, where the implant is carefully drilled and fixed in place.

Although the idea may sound intimidating, the jaw itself has no nerve endings, so you won’t feel sharp pain—just some mild pressure during the process.

The procedure is relatively quick, typically taking around an hour for a single implant, though the time may vary depending on how many implants are being placed.

Avoiding Any Discomfort

Before the procedure, your dentist may provide pain relief to help manage any discomfort once the anaesthetic wears off. Some mild soreness after surgery is normal, but your dentist will guide you on how to keep it under control.

Most patients receive a personalised aftercare plan, designed to meet their specific needs and make recovery as comfortable as possible. With proper guidance and pain management, your healing process can be smooth and largely pain-free.

Aftercare and Healing

Recovery time varies depending on the number of implants and your overall health, but most patients are back to normal within about 10 days. Some mild discomfort is expected during the first week, and minor soreness may continue for a few more days.

If pain persists beyond two weeks, it’s important to schedule a follow-up appointment to rule out any infection, although this is very uncommon.

To support healing and reduce the risk of complications, follow your dentist’s instructions carefully, avoid smoking, and maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout the recovery period. These steps will help ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

Reducing Discomfort at Home

After your dental implant procedure, there are several ways to manage discomfort and support healing:

• Ice packs: Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek to reduce pain and swelling.
• Saltwater rinses: Gently rinse with warm saltwater. It may sting slightly, but it helps keep bacteria at bay.
• Rest: Give your body plenty of rest. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise during recovery.
• Soft foods: Stick to cold, soft, or pureed foods. Cold smoothies or yogurt can be particularly soothing.

The procedure itself typically takes around an hour and is largely pain-free, though you may feel some pressure during treatment. With proper care, most patients recover within about 10 days. Following your dentist’s advice and taking extra precautions can help minimise the risk of infection and make your recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible.

‍