4 Tips to Minimize the Pain and Discomfort After a Dental Implant

When you discover exactly how a dental implant is performed, one of your first thoughts may be that it sounds painful. The truth is that dental implants are a lot less painful than they appear to be, and generally speaking the level of discomfort is somewhat like that of a root canal.

Normally after you’ve had a dental implant your dentist will prescribe some sort of painkillers that will help reduce the pain once the local anesthetic runs out. In addition to that, there are several other steps that you can take to reduce the pain and discomfort that you may feel:

• Reduce swelling with an ice pack

If you notice swelling near the area where the implant is located you can reduce it by using an ice pack. Just apply it to the outside of your mouth near that area, and the swelling should subside somewhat. It is worth noting that cold from eating ice cream can help with swelling too – so if you want you can indulge yourself a bit.

• Avoid hot food

During the first 24 hours in particular you should try to avoid hot food. Heat will generally cause your blood vessels to dilate, which could cause them to bleed more profusely. In short, let your food cool down before you eat it so that you don’t end up bleeding any more than you already are.

• Use mouthwash

It is important to keep your mouth clean after an implant to reduce the risk of infection which could result in more pain and discomfort. Typically your dentist may prescribe a certain type of mouthwash, and you should make a point of using it.

• Quit smoking

If you are a smoker, then you may want to try giving it up before you have a dental implant. Smoking is known to be an impediment to healing, which will mean that your pain and discomfort may continue for longer than normal. More importantly, it will increase the risk of the implant failing because it didn’t integrate properly with the bone – which is the last thing that you would want to happen.

As with any recovery, it will also help if you get lots of rest – so take it easy at least for a day or two after the procedure. If you do find the discomfort or pain to be a bit too much, you can always consult your dentist for advice and possibly to change up the painkillers that you’ve been prescribed. Make no mistake, getting implants is a complicated but worthwhile process and with the right dental implants Sheffield treating you – you should be able to enjoy the benefits in no time.