Sensational Smiles: What do Dental Implants Feel Like?

Did you know that in the United States, and estimated 3+ million dental implants are placed annually? That number is only expected to grow as more people learn about the many advantages of these unique replacement teeth. Unlike dentures and dental bridges, they are embedded directly into your jawbone for added strength and resilience.

Despite this, many patients hesitate to undergo the procedure because they’re worried their new teeth will look or feel awkward next to their natural ones. Continue reading to learn more about what sensations you can expect from your dental implants to set your mind at ease!

Does Getting Dental Implants Hurt?

These restorations are the only ones that are surgically placed in your jaw to function as sturdy stand-alone structures, just like your natural teeth. You’ll be numbed and sedated for the procedure itself, so you won’t even have to worry about any potential discomfort until your recovery period. Then, it’s natural to feel some moderate throbbing and swelling for up to 10 days.

Typically, it’s safe to address your aches with over-the-counter pain medications like Tylenol or ibuprofen. Then, once you’ve fully recovered, you shouldn’t have any adverse sensations in your new tooth because they’re made from artificial materials that don’t communicate with your brain like your organic teeth do.

What Do Dental Implants Feel Like?

Another thing many patients wonder about is whether their implant will feel bulky or awkward in their mouths. Thankfully, your prosthetics are customized at every stage of their creation to mimic your natural teeth as closely as possible. The resilient tooth-colored materials, like ceramic or resin, can be customized to match your pearly white’s shade, shape, and size for seamless results.

If you’re concerned that the titanium rod in your jawbone will cause persistent sensations, you’re in luck! Although this metallic pole eventually fuses with your jaw to function like the root of a tooth, it doesn’t contain nerves or pulp, so there’s nothing to send any “pain” signals back to your brain.

Furthermore, these restorations are considered more comfortable than alternatives like dentures or dental bridges. Unlike the other methods, dental implants don’t rely on a firm suction to your gums or an attachment to abutment teeth in your mouth to remain in place. That means you don’t have to worry about developing sore spots that can interfere with your new teeth.

If you’re looking for replacement teeth that look and feel like the real deal, contact your dentist today to schedule your dental implant consultation!

About the Author

Dr. Terry Rakowsky has 35+ years of experience helping people improve their lives by enhancing their dental condition. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and has continued his education with ongoing courses through the prestigious Dawson Academy and Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies. He partners with the best local specialists to place your dental implants, then provides resilient, lifelike restorations to cap them. If you need to replace missing teeth, you can request an appointment on the website or call (215) 348-2224.