Pain Management After Dental Implant Surgery By Jose Valenzuela on March 20, 2017

An implant-supported dental crownHealing and recovery are topics we discuss a fair about at our Los Algodones dental center. After undergoing oral surgery to place dental implants, pain and discomfort is normal. The degree of pain can vary from patient to patient. Most patients will notice some soreness after surgery, which is easily manageable. Other patients may note more serious levels of pain that can impact their life for the next day or so.

Thankfully, pain after oral surgery is only temporary and can be easily managed by following post-op instructions. Most patients will be able to go about their lives just fine, though they will note the soreness periodically thorough the day. Here's a general overview of how you can deal with pain after oral surgery.

How Long Will the Pain Last?

This is another factors that varies from patient to patient. In most cases, the significant pain and discomfort occurs in the first six or seven hours after the surgery. After that, residual pain will last for the first day to few days.

The issue of pain will often be over with by the end of two to three days. The same is true with noticeable bruising, swelling, and discoloration of the surgical site.

Taking Pain Medications as Directed

If you need to, patients can take pain medication as directed by their oral surgeon. Many times the pain reliever is a simple over-the-counter drug, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. In rare instances, prescription pain killers may be provided. Be sure to take any medications as directed by your oral surgeon to prevent serious harm and ensure proper healing.

Adjusting Your Diet

One way to prevent serious discomfort is to adjust your diet so it will not trigger sensations of pain. Avoid foods that are hot in temperature as this can lead to serious sensations of discomfort. It's also a good idea to eat soft foods that do not require much chewing, such as pureed soups, puddings, yogurt, and shakes. These should not be ingested with drinking straws, however, as the suction can affect your recovery.

Ice for Bruising, Swelling, and Discomfort

To manage swelling, bruising, and discomfort after your oral surgery, it can be helpful to apply an icepack or cold compress to the part of the face affected by the surgery. Do not apply ice directly onto the surgical site. Instead, keep the ice in a bag and apply it to your cheek or lips, with 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours after oral surgery.

Proper Oral Hygiene

To help minimize pain and ensure a complication-free recovery in the weeks ahead, be sure to engage in good oral hygiene. This typically means rinsing with a salt water solution a few times a day and gently brushing your teeth around the surgical site. While brushing may be uncomfortable for the first day or so, it is crucial for avoiding problems down the road.

Learn More About Dental Implants

For more information about dental implants and how they can help you have a healthy and beautiful smile, be sure to contact our oral surgery and implant dentistry center today. We will work closely with you to improve the health of your smile.

Related to This

Dr. Valenzuela

Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry Center

The Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry Center in Los Algodones offers patients in the Southern California and Western Arizona area state-of-the-art dental work at our modern, inviting, and comfortable dental office. Dr. Valenzuela is a member of multiple prestigious organizations, including:

  • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
  • American Dental Association
  • International Congress of Oral Implantologists
  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry

Contact us online or call (928) 792-2156 to schedule an appointment today.

Contact Us Today

Rate, Review & Explore

Social Accounts Sprite
Google map image of our location in Calle 2 1005 Vicente Guerrero  Los Algodones, BC

Los Algodones Office

Calle 2 1005 Vicente Guerrero
Los Algodones, BC 21970

Open Today 8:00am - 5:00pm

(928) 792-2156 Send a message