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What Are Inlays for Teeth

One of the most common questions we hear at Glow Dental is, “Are dental implants painful?” The good news is that most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the procedure is.

Dental implant placement is carried out using effective local anaesthetic, meaning you should not feel pain during the procedure itself. You may experience some mild discomfort afterwards, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and typically settles within a few days.

Do You Feel Pain During the Procedure?

No. Before treatment begins, the area is thoroughly numbed with a local anaesthetic. Once the area is numb, you may feel some pressure or gentle movement, but you should not feel pain.

Many patients compare the experience to having a routine tooth extraction or filling and often comment that it was easier than they expected.

What Does It Feel Like After the Implant Is Placed?

Once the anaesthetic wears off, it is normal to experience some mild discomfort. This is simply part of the body’s natural healing process.

You may notice:

  • Mild soreness around the implant site
  • Slight swelling of the gums or face
  • Minor bruising
  • Tenderness when chewing

These symptoms are usually mild and improve over the first few days.

How Long Does the Pain Last?

Most patients find that any discomfort is greatest during the first 24 to 48 hours after treatment.

By the end of the first week, most soreness has settled significantly, although the implant itself continues to heal beneath the gum for several months as it bonds with the jawbone.

Everyone heals at a different rate, but most people return to normal daily activities within a day or two.

How Can I Reduce Discomfort?

Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions will help ensure a comfortable recovery.

We usually recommend:

  • Taking pain relief as advised
  • Applying a cold pack to reduce swelling during the first 24 hours
  • Eating soft foods for a few days
  • Avoiding smoking while healing
  • Keeping the area clean by following your oral hygiene instructions

These simple steps help reduce discomfort and support healthy healing.

Will I Be Awake During the Procedure?

Yes. Dental implant treatment is normally carried out using local anaesthetic, so you will be awake but comfortable throughout the procedure.

If you feel particularly nervous about dental treatment, please let us know. We will explain every step carefully and discuss ways to help you feel as relaxed as possible.

Is Implant Surgery More Painful Than a Tooth Extraction?

Many patients are surprised to learn that dental implant placement is often reported as being less uncomfortable than having a tooth removed.

This is because implant surgery is carefully planned and performed with precision, causing minimal disruption to the surrounding tissues.

What If I Feel Severe Pain?

Mild discomfort is expected after implant treatment, but severe or worsening pain is not typical.

If you experience:

  • Increasing pain after several days
  • Significant swelling that continues to worsen
  • Persistent bleeding
  • Signs of infection such as pus or fever

You should contact your dentist as soon as possible so the area can be assessed.

Does the Implant Hurt While It Heals?

Once the initial healing period has passed, you should not feel the implant healing inside the jawbone.

During the next few months, the implant gradually fuses with the bone in a natural process called osseointegration. This normally happens without causing pain.

Is Everyone Suitable for Dental Implants?

Most healthy adults are suitable candidates for dental implants. During your consultation, we will examine your teeth, gums and jawbone and discuss your medical history to determine whether implant treatment is right for you.

If additional treatment such as bone grafting is needed, we will explain everything clearly before your treatment begins.

Why Choose Glow Dental?

At Glow Dental, patient comfort is one of our highest priorities. We use modern techniques, careful planning and effective anaesthesia to make implant treatment as comfortable as possible.

From your first consultation through to your final restoration, our experienced team will guide you through every stage of treatment and answer any questions you may have.

Book Your Dental Implant Consultation

If you’re worried about whether dental implants are painful, we’re here to help.

Book a consultation with Glow Dental to discuss your options. We’ll explain the procedure, answer your questions and create a personalised treatment plan to help you restore your smile with confidence.

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What our patients say
Dr Hooman Sanaty and his team at Glow Dental in Battersea are brilliant. From the moment you walk into the dental practice you are treated with genuine smiles, warmth and kindness by the reception team which has a calming effect and puts you at ease instantly.- Alia M
Visited Glow Dental for the first time today, and it's been some time since I had a dental check up. Stephen was an excellent dentist, really put me at ease, and I valued that he could not only talk me through - but also show me - the condition of my teeth and gums. He was really helpful with all my questions too.- Felicity B
Just finished my Orthodontist Treatment in this practice. Wonderful service and amazing staffs! Thank you so much for giving me a new smile =) - Connie L
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87 Northcote Road
Battersea,
London,
SW11 6PL

Call us today on 0207 223 7096

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