Fear of pain is one of the biggest reasons people delay getting dental implants. But the reality of what the procedure actually feels like — and what recovery involves — is often very different from what patients imagine.
During the Procedure: What You Feel
Dental implant placement is performed under local anaesthesia. The area is completely numb before any work begins. You may feel pressure and movement, but you will not feel sharp pain during the surgery itself. Many patients are genuinely surprised by how comfortable the procedure is.
The First 24-48 Hours After
As the anaesthesia wears off, mild to moderate discomfort is normal. The area will be tender, and there may be some swelling and bruising. Most patients manage this comfortably with over-the-counter ibuprofen or prescription pain relief. The worst is typically over within 2-3 days.
The Healing Period
The months following implant placement are largely uneventful. The implant gradually fuses with the jawbone (osseointegration) — a process that you generally do not feel. Routine follow-up visits allow us to monitor the healing. Most patients live completely normally during this period.
When to Contact Us
Severe, worsening pain after the first 3-4 days, fever, significant swelling that increases after 72 hours, or implant mobility are all reasons to contact us promptly. For the vast majority of patients, recovery from dental implants is far less uncomfortable than expected. Book your consultation at Smileworks Dental Calgary today.