Dental implants are a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. They can restore both function and aesthetics to your smile, providing an alternative that closely resembles the feel of natural teeth. But it’s natural to wonder: what will having implants actually feel like, and will they ever feel just like real teeth? Here’s what to expect before, during, and after getting dental implants.
What Do Dental Implants Feel Like?
It’s normal to experience some discomfort immediately following implant surgery, particularly as your mouth begins to heal. Minor soreness, swelling, or tenderness is expected for the first few weeks, but these symptoms usually subside quickly. To manage any post-surgery discomfort, most patients find relief with over-the-counter pain relievers, rest, and by carefully following post-op care instructions from their dentist.
Once your gums have healed and your custom crown, bridge, or denture are attached to the implants, there may be a short period of adjustment. At first, you might feel a slightly unusual sensation as your mouth adapts to the implants. For some, there’s an increase in saliva as the mouth adjusts to the new additions. Fortunately, this sensation is temporary, and as your mouth adapts, your implants should start to feel increasingly natural.
Eating with Dental Implants
When you first begin eating with your implants, it’s best to stick to softer foods and avoid very hard or sticky items. This gives you time to get used to your new bite and lets your mouth adjust gradually. Your dentist will provide specific guidelines to help you care for and use your implants during this initial period.
One of the most significant benefits of dental implants is their ability to offer a bite force similar to that of natural teeth. After the adjustment period, you should be able to enjoy a wide variety of foods without worry. For patients who previously used traditional dentures, eating with implants is often a huge improvement, offering a more stable and comfortable eating experience.
Do Implants Feel Like Natural Teeth?
After the adjustment period, many patients report that their implants feel so natural, they hardly notice them. Dental implants are designed to mimic the structure of natural teeth, anchored firmly into the jawbone by titanium posts that provide a stable foundation. The restorations themselves are made to look and feel like real teeth, allowing them to function seamlessly in everyday activities like eating, speaking, and smiling.
About the Practice
LIC Dental Associates provides exceptional dental care for patients in Long Island City and surrounding communities. Our skilled dentists specialize in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, along with top services like dental implants. To learn more about this method of tooth replacement, visit our website or call (347) 537-6172.