Dental Implant Pain – Top 10 Best Ways to Get Rid of

Dental Implant Pain – Top 10 Best Ways to Get Rid of

25th March 2023

Dental implants are the best option for getting your long-lost teeth back. But they can sometimes cause discomfort and pain during the healing process.

Dental implant pain can vary in severity and duration. Knowing how to manage it is very important to ensure a successful recovery. Besides, it also helps you get rid of any discomfort you might face during or after your dental treatment.

If you’re experiencing dental implant pain, don’t worry. There are several effective ways to reduce it. Here, we will explore ten of the best ways to get rid of dental implant pain.

Dental Implant Pain – Top 10 Best Ways to Get Rid of

1. Take painkillers as directed

Taking painkillers is the most common way to reduce dental implant pain. While taking painkillers, remember the following things.

Over-the-counter painkillers can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.
Always read and follow the medication instructions on the painkiller label.
Never take more than the recommended dose.
If you’re unsure which painkillers to take or how much to take, consult your dentist or pharmacist.

2. Apply ice packs

You can consider applying an ice pack to the implant area to ease toothache. Here’s how you can do it:

Wrap a small bag of ice in a towel or cloth. It will protect your skin from frostbite. You can hold it against your cheek for 10-15 minutes.
Take a break of at least 10-15 minutes in between icing sessions. It will avoid damaging your skin or tissues.
Avoid applying the ice pack directly to the implant site. It can cause further damage or delay healing.
Ice packs can only provide temporary relief. So, you should not depend on them as a long-term solution.

3. Use salt water rinse

A saltwater rinse is an effective way to soothe the gums and reduce inflammation. You can follow these steps for a saltwater rinse to avoid pain.

Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and stir until dissolved.
Swish the salt water solution around your mouth. Do it for 30-60 seconds; then, you can spit it out.
Repeat the rinse 2-3 times a day or as your dentist directs.
When implementing this step, avoid swallowing the saltwater solution. It can cause dehydration or other negative side effects.

4. Avoid hard or crunchy foods

Hard or crunchy foods can put pressure on the implant site. Further, they can delay healing and increase your pain and discomfort.

Some tips to help you get through the discomfort phase are as follows.

Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods. You can consider mashed potatoes, soup, yogurt, and scrambled eggs.
Avoid foods that are sticky or chewy. These can get stuck in the implant site and cause further irritation or infection.
Don’t use the affected area of your mouth to chew.
Additionally, you can consider cutting food into small, bite-sized pieces. It will make it easier to chew and swallow.

5. Keep your head elevated

If you keep your head elevated, it can contribute to reducing inflammation and pain. It can also help improve blood flow to the implant site. Thus, it is a very beneficial method to avoid pain and discomfort.

To keep your head elevated, you can:

Use an extra pillow or two to prop your head up while sleeping.
Recline in a chair with your head elevated during the day.
Lying flat on your back or stomach can be a bad idea. It can increase swelling and pain.
You can adjust your position accordingly if you experience any adverse reactions, such as difficulty breathing or dizziness.

6. Avoid smoking

Smoking tobacco or cigarettes can make your healing process longer. Besides, it can also increase the risk of complications. Smoking can cause an infection, implant failure, and even bone loss.

You can keep these key points in mind to avoid smoking.

Avoid smoking or using any tobacco products for at least 48 hours after the implant procedure. You should also avoid it for the duration of the healing period.
If you’re having trouble quitting smoking, talk to your dentist or healthcare provider for support and resources.
Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can also delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
If you’re experiencing severe or prolonged pain despite avoiding smoking, contact your dentist as soon as possible.

7. Practice good oral hygiene

Good oral hygiene can prevent infection and promote healing after dental implant surgery.

Here’s how you can practice good oral hygiene.

Brush your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying special attention to the implant site.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce the risk of infection.
Floss every day. It will remove any bacteria and food from between your teeth and around the implant site.
In addition, follow any additional oral hygiene instructions provided by your dentist.

8. Use a dental splint

Your dentist may recommend the use of a temporary splint or a soft bite guard to protect your implant site. It can help prevent accidental pressure or trauma to the area and promote faster healing.

When using a dental splint, keep in mind to:

Follow your dentist’s instructions for using the device.
Be gentle when inserting and removing the device. It will avoid irritating the implant site.
Remember to keep the device clean by washing it with mild soap and warm water.

9. Try relaxation techniques

Relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, meditation, and guided imagery, can help reduce stress. By relaxing, you can also avoid any tension and anxiety.

Find a quiet and comfortable place to practice, free from distractions or interruptions.
Take deep breaths.
Visualize a peaceful and healing scene.
Implementing relaxation techniques will help take your mind off the pain.

10. Follow your dentist’s instructions

Your dentist is the expert when it comes to your dental implant procedure. He can guide you through the best way way to get rid of toothache or discomfort.

Don’t exceed your dentist’s recommended dosage or frequency of pain medication. It can lead to complications or side effects. Also, you must follow any dietary restrictions provided by your cosmetic dentist.

Wrapping it up!
Dental implants can be very frustrating and painful. But the pain is worth it, as you can regain your missing tooth. When you choose the right dentist, you can have a satisfactory treatment. Dental experts from Natural Smiles can give you the best treatment.

Our dentists consider your dental needs and help you bring back your long-lost cheerful smile. So, what are you waiting for? Connect with the best dental experts in town for your dental implant.