One of the most common questions we hear at Shine Dental is: "Will the implant procedure hurt?" It's a completely valid concern, and we want to give you an honest, detailed answer.
The Short Answer
Most patients report that the dental implant procedure itself is far more comfortable than they expected. With modern anaesthesia techniques and careful surgical planning, the procedure is generally well-tolerated.
During the Procedure: What You'll Feel
The implant is placed under local anaesthesia — the same type used for fillings and extractions. Here's what patients typically experience:
- Pressure and vibration during drilling, but not sharp pain
- Tugging sensations as the implant is positioned
- Numbness in the treatment area that lasts a few hours after the procedure
Dr. Cho has placed over 9,000 implants across 35+ years of practice. This depth of experience means procedures are efficient and precise, which contributes significantly to patient comfort.
After the Procedure: Managing Discomfort
Post-surgical discomfort is normal and manageable. Here's what to expect in the days following implant placement:
Days 1–3 - Mild to moderate soreness around the implant site - Some swelling of the cheek or gum area - Minor bruising in some cases
Days 4–7 - Discomfort gradually decreases - Swelling begins to subside - Most patients return to normal activities within a few days
Pain Management Tips
- Take prescribed medications as directed — staying ahead of pain is easier than chasing it
- Apply ice packs — 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 48 hours
- Eat soft, cool foods — yoghurt, smoothies, mashed vegetables, and soups
- Avoid hot drinks and alcohol for the first 24–48 hours
- Don't smoke — smoking significantly delays healing and increases complications
Factors That Affect Comfort Levels
Not everyone experiences the same level of discomfort. Several factors influence your experience:
Number of implants: A single implant procedure typically causes less post-operative discomfort than placing multiple implants.
Bone grafting: If a bone graft is required alongside the implant, you may experience slightly more swelling and soreness.
Individual pain threshold: Everyone responds differently. Some patients take over-the-counter pain relief for a day or two; others need very little.
Surgical technique: An experienced practitioner who works efficiently tends to cause less tissue trauma, which means faster, more comfortable recovery. Dr. Cho's extensive implant experience — including his role as a Key Opinion Leader for the DIO Implant System — reflects his focus on precision.
Comparing Implant Discomfort to Other Dental Procedures
To put things in perspective:
| Procedure | Typical Discomfort Level |
|-----------|------------------------|
| Simple filling | Minimal |
| Tooth extraction | Moderate |
| Single implant | Moderate (similar to extraction) |
| Multiple implants | Moderate to noticeable |
| Wisdom teeth removal | Moderate to noticeable |
Many patients tell us the implant procedure was easier than the extraction that preceded it.
Sedation Options
For patients who feel anxious about dental procedures, we offer options to help you feel more relaxed. During your consultation, discuss your concerns with Dr. Cho so the right approach can be planned.
You can also read our guide on managing dental anxiety for helpful strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does pain last after a dental implant?
Most patients find that significant discomfort subsides within 3–5 days. Mild tenderness may continue for up to two weeks as the gum tissue heals.
Can I go to work the day after implant surgery?
Many patients return to desk-based work within 1–2 days. If your job involves physical labour, you may want to take 2–3 days off.
Is bone grafting more painful than the implant itself?
Bone grafting can add some additional post-operative swelling and discomfort, but it is generally manageable with appropriate pain relief.
What should I do if pain gets worse after a few days instead of better?
Increasing pain after the first 3 days could indicate an issue such as infection. Contact Shine Dental promptly so Dr. Cho can assess the situation.
Take the Next Step
If fear of pain has been holding you back from replacing missing teeth, we encourage you to book a consultation. Dr. Cho will explain exactly what to expect for your specific situation, and together you can decide the right approach.
Patients from Newington, Wentworth Point, Auburn, Sydney Olympic Park, and Lidcombe trust Shine Dental for honest, clear communication about every procedure.
Call (02) 9748 4822 or book a consultation online.
Shine Dental — Unit 5, 8 Avenue of Americas, Newington NSW 2127
Open Mon–Wed & Fri 9am–5pm, Thu 9am–12pm