If you are having dental implants, it’s normal to feel apprehensive about the procedure. One of the most common questions our patients in Luton and Bedford ask is about anaesthesia, and whether they will still be awake during the procedure.
Usually, the answer is yes, and Dr Uzman will ensure that you are completely comfortable throughout the process. While we usually place dental implants under local anaesthetic, we do offer a choice of options to help make your treatment journey more stress-free. This can include sedation if you have dental anxiety or are undergoing more lengthy or complex treatment.
Will dental implants hurt?
As the dental implant process itself is done under local anaesthetic, you will not usually feel any pain; the affected area will be completely numbed. However, after the procedure, it is normal to feel some soreness, swelling or bruising. This can usually be treated with over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.
Many patients tell us that the dental implant process was far more comfortable than they had expected.
Can you be put to sleep for dental implants in the UK?
Usually, you would not be put into a true ‘sleep’. General anaesthetic for dental implants is rare in the UK and is typically only used for very complex surgical treatments, some hospital-based procedures and to treat patients with extreme dental anxiety or phobias.
If you are having only one or two implants, we would usually give you a local anaesthetic, which will be injected into the area where you are having the implant, so you won’t feel any pain while the dentist works on your implant.
We do offer sedation in the following situations:
- Multiple dental procedures in one appointment
- Particularly complex implant surgery
- Dental anxiety or phobia
- Some physical or learning disabilities, especially if you or the person you care for struggle to sit still or control movements in a dental chair
How does Dr Uzman keep you comfortable during the dental implant procedure?
Dr Uzman prioritises the comfort and wellbeing of all his patients throughout the Luton and Bedford area. Here are some of the ways we help keep your patient journey relaxing and stress-free.
- Personalised care
As an Implant Dentist, Dr Uzman will regularly check in with you both before and after your dental implant surgery. This personalised and empathetic approach gives you the opportunity to talk through any issues or questions as soon as they arise.
- A relaxing, soothing environment
Our clinics provide a friendly, relaxed environment for patients of all ages. We encourage you to bring headphones to listen to music, audiobooks or podcasts if you feel these will soothe you or provide a distraction for any anxiety.
- We are dental implant experts
Tooth implants are recommended by most dentists as a way to replace lost, broken or failing teeth. Highly experienced in advanced implant dentistry, Dr Uzman has fitted over 1000 implants during his career and is committed to helping you transform your smile.
- You can bring a support person
If you experience dental anxiety, we encourage you to bring someone you trust to your appointment to provide moral support, comfort and reassurance, whether this is a family member, friend or partner.
How do you ask for sedation for dental implant surgery?
Asking for sedation before you have a dental implant can be stressful in itself, especially if you have anxiety or have experienced trauma around dental or medical settings.
We encourage you to be honest about your anxiety, discomfort or past experiences when you book your appointment. We will assess your needs to make sure we tailor our approach and offer you the most appropriate sedation option when you come to have your dental implants.
Is it safe to have anaesthetic or sedation for dental implants?
Having sedation or local anaesthetic is usually completely safe. However, before your procedure we will ask about your medical history, including any medications you are on, to provide the most appropriate option for you.
Local anaesthetic numbs the mouth and jaw completely, and it may take several hours or longer for sensation to return once you have gone home. We recommend chewing on the other side of your mouth for the first few days, avoiding very hot or cold food and drink, and eating soft foods to give your implant site a chance to heal.
If you opt for sedation, it is important to note that we do not recommend driving for around 24 hours after your procedure, and do not advise taking public transport home. We therefore advise you not to drive to your appointment, and to arrange someone to take you home afterwards.
If you’re undergoing sedation and have a morning appointment, the NHS recommends that you do not eat anything after midnight the night before. If you’re having an afternoon appointment, we recommend eating a light breakfast before 7am; you can drink a glass of water up to 2 hours before your appointment. However, Dr Uzman will be able to give you more detailed advice.
Once your implants are fitted, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing your teeth and using the mouthwash advised by your dentist. This will support the healing of your dental implants, and help reduce the risk of complications.
Will I be awake during the dental implant procedure?
Yes – Dr Uzman will ensure that you are completely comfortable throughout your appointment, and will keep your dental implant journey stress-free and painless.
If you’re undergoing very complex treatment, are having several implants fitted in one day or are nervous about your appointment, we may offer you conscious IV sedation. This means you are drowsy and relaxed, but remain conscious throughout the procedure.
