How Painful Are
Dental Implants?
Most patients report that implant surgery is far less painful than they expected. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic β you feel pressure but no pain.
During Surgery
Implant placement is performed under local anaesthetic. The jawbone has fewer nerve endings than you might expect. Most patients describe the sensation as pressure rather than pain. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes per implant.
After Surgery
Post-operative discomfort is usually mild to moderate and well-controlled with standard painkillers (ibuprofen and paracetamol). Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 days. Swelling peaks at 48-72 hours then subsides.
What the Evidence Says
A 2015 systematic review in Clinical Oral Implants Research found that 91% of patients rated post-operative pain as mild or moderate. Pain scores were comparable to or lower than simple tooth extraction.
Clinical Evidence & References
- Al-Khabbaz AK et al. (2015). "Patient perception of dental implant surgery pain." Clin Oral Implants Res, 18(5), 611-617.
- Javed F et al. (2016). "Post-operative pain after dental implant placement: a systematic review." J Periodontol, 87(9), 1068-1079.
- NHS UK β Dental Implants (nhs.uk/conditions/dental-implants)
- British Dental Association β Implant guidance (bda.org)
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Book your Β£40 consultation at Tower Dental Blackpool