Immediate loading implantology interventions are less and less invasive, so recovery is much faster and practically painless. Therefore, today we can say that dental implants don't have to cause painneither during placement nor afterwards.
But it is clear that this statement cannot be generalized to all patients. To begin with, the complexity of the intervention has an influence, a single implant is not the same as six.
Postoperative pain, which we can notice once the effect of the anesthetic wears off, is very individual and subjective. It depends on factors such as previous experience of pain, pain threshold, mood... The professional who carries out the treatment will have to indicate an appropriate guideline for each patient and type of surgery, so that the days after the intervention pass as kindly as possible.
Although, we insist, it is true that a surgical intervention with dental implants should be completely painless, sometimes and for various reasons the patient may experience some sensation of discomfort, due to previous infections or the decrease in the analgesic effect. If we anticipate any of these circumstances or that the surgery may last more than 75 minutes, we also recommend intravenous sedation. With this we achieve that the patient does not feel anything during the intervention, and also will be calm and relaxed.
If the pain occurs in the days or months after the intervention, then we must consider other causes.
What discomforts can be considered normal?
As we have mentioned, current interventions are minimally invasive: the incision in the gum is sometimes non-existent, so there is very little inflammation or bleeding. The symptoms that may appear and that would be considered normal are:
- A slight swelling. If this happens, apply cold to the outside of the face, in the area where the implant is located.
- If the inflammation causes you discomfort, an anti-inflammatory or an analgesic should be enough, yes, always prescribed by your professional and prescribed in the correct way.
- A slight bleeding in the 48 hours after the intervention. Apply gauze with light pressure to the gum until the bleeding stops. Amchafibrin can be applied on the gauze (in the pharmacy they will be able to advise you).
- In some cases, low-grade fever may also appear in the 72 hours after the intervention. You can take paracetamol, and the fever should subside in a maximum of 24 hours.
What symptoms are not considered normal?
In some cases, symptoms may appear that are not usual in implantology interventions. If you have any of these symptoms, see your dentist or get a second opinion.
- The implant bleeds excessively, and it is difficult or impossible to stop the bleeding.
- The fever does not subside in a day or with the taking of an antipyretic.
- The pain is unbearable, it prevents or makes it difficult for us to sleep or carry out our usual tasks.
- The implant moves.
- The gum around the implant recedes, bleeds or has a white or yellowish color, different from usual.
- Months have passed since the intervention and the implant, once the prosthetic cover or crown has been placed, causes discomfort, especially when biting with that area.
Faced with these or similar symptoms, our recommendation is that you go immediately to your dentist or another trusted professional specialized in the field of implantology.
Why does this happen?
There are several causes that can lead to complications, although most are easily predictable or avoidable. To give an example, in our clinic we have a success rate of 98,6% for immediate loading implants, which means that only 1,4% are likely to cause problems. But what should be taken into account?
- Some diseases, such as diabetes or periodontitis, can affect the success of the implant. It is very important that your dentist does a thorough check-up and has all the information related to your health. Problems derived from bone metabolism will also have to be considered, such as a low concentration of vitamin D in the blood or medications such as bisphosphonates.
- People have different sensitivity thresholds. This must be taken into account when assessing the pain that the implant seems to cause.
- Quality is also important. Ask your dentist to explain the implant materials and give you manufacturer references.
- It should not be forgotten that the experience and skill of the specialist who performs the intervention also have a decisive influence on the result.
In addition, to ensure that your intervention is a success, we recommend that you follow these tips on how to care for your dental implants during the postoperative period.
Above all, if you have any questions or unforeseen symptoms, consult your dentist immediately. And if you have any questions or you can't get your discomfort to subside, stop by the Ahoa Clinic in Barcelona, at Gran Vía de las Cortes Catalanas, 620, and we will help you put an end to your problem.