Do Dental Implants Hurt? A Guide for Torrance Patients on Dental Implant Procedures

Do Dental Implants Hurt? A Guide for Torrance Patients on Dental Implant Procedures

December 10, 2025

If you’re considering dental implants in Torrance, it's natural to wonder about the discomfort involved. At Steve Kim DDS, we’ve heard this question countless times, and we’re here to offer clarity, reassurance, and expert insight. 

With over 20 years of experience serving the South Bay community, and a focus on personalized, compassionate care, Dr. Steve Kim and our multilingual team are committed to making your dental implant journey smooth, comfortable, and rewarding from start to finish.

What to Expect During a Dental Implant Procedure

Modern dental implant procedures are more comfortable than most people realize, especially under the care of a specialist like Dr. Steve Kim. As a trained prosthodontist, Dr. Kim applies his expertise in restorative and aesthetic dentistry to plan each procedure with precision. 

From your initial exam to final restoration, every step is explained and tailored to your needs. The procedure typically involves three phases:

  • Initial Evaluation: Digital imaging and advanced diagnostics help determine treatment suitability.
  • Implant Placement: A titanium post is placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia, often with sedation options to ensure comfort.
  • Restoration: Once the implant integrates with your jaw, a custom crown is attached for a natural-looking finish.

Many patients report that the discomfort is minimal, often less than a standard tooth extraction, and post-operative pain is manageable with over-the-counter medication. Our advanced technology helps minimize tissue disruption, speeding up recovery and reducing swelling.

Post-Procedure Pain: What’s Normal and What’s Not

It’s completely normal to experience mild discomfort or swelling in the days following implant placement. Most clients at our office say the pain is surprisingly tolerable, thanks in part to the minimally invasive techniques we use. Here’s what you might experience:

  • Soreness near the implant site for a few days
  • Mild swelling or bruising, especially around the gums or cheeks
  • Temporary changes in chewing ability while healing takes place

Severe, lingering pain is rare but should be reported. At Steve Kim DDS, our team remains available for follow-up and support, offering clear aftercare instructions in English, Korean, Vietnamese, or Spanish to ensure you feel informed and comfortable at every stage.

How Dr. Steve Kim Minimizes Pain with Implant Dentistry

Dr. Steve Kim’s specialized training in prosthodontics and artistic approach to restoration ensures your dental implants are planned with both function and comfort in mind. Every case is customized using state-of-the-art technology, including 3D digital scans and precision-guided surgery. We also take several steps to reduce discomfort:

  • Personalized sedation options for anxious or sensitive patients
  • Minimally invasive techniques to encourage quicker healing
  • Detailed recovery plans to ensure a smooth post-surgery experience

As part of our commitment to long-term results, we prioritize patient education and careful monitoring during follow-up appointments. This level of meticulous care is why we're one of the highest-rated implant providers in the South Bay area.

Are Dental Implants Worth It Despite the Pain?

While some discomfort is expected, the long-term benefits of dental implants far outweigh the temporary soreness. Implants deliver a stable, natural-looking solution that can last a lifetime with proper care. They also promote bone health, restore chewing function, and enhance your smile’s appearance.

Patients frequently express that any short-term pain is a small price to pay for restored confidence and improved quality of life. And with expert guidance from Dr. Kim, whose artistic, detail-driven work underscores every procedure, you can feel assured you’re receiving care that’s both compassionate and expertly executed.

Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation in Torrance Today

If you’re ready to explore tooth replacement options and want expert, judgment-free guidance, call Steve Kim DDS at (310) 539-5300 to schedule your dental implant consultation. Our welcoming team is here to answer all your questions and guide you through each step with care, clarity, and comfort. Discover why so many families in the South Bay trust us with their smiles.

Where Smiles Begin

Join Our Dental Family