Dental implants are an excellent, long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. While the procedure has a high success rate, understanding the post-implant healing timeline and care steps is crucial for ensuring proper recovery and the long-term success of your dental implant.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we are committed to helping patients navigate every stage of their implant journeyfrom placement to full recovery. This guide walks you through what to expect during healing and how to care for your implant properly at each step.
What to Expect: The Dental Implant Healing Timeline
1. First 2448 Hours: Initial Healing
What happens: Mild bleeding, swelling, and discomfort are normal.
Care focus: Protect the blood clot, control swelling, and avoid disturbing the surgical site.
2. Days 37: Tissue Recovery Begins
Swelling peaks around 4872 hours, then starts to reduce.
Gum tissue begins to close around the implant.
3. Week 12: Soft Tissue Healing
Stitches (if non-dissolvable) may be removed around day 714.
Discomfort should be significantly reduced.
The gum area appears less swollen and begins to look more normal.
4. Months 13: Bone Integration (Osseointegration)
The implant fuses with the jawbone during this critical period.
No pain, but the implant is not yet ready for heavy bite forces.
You may wear a temporary crown or denture during this stage.
5. 36 Months: Final Restoration
Once osseointegration is complete, the permanent crown, bridge, or denture is placed.
The implant is fully functional and feels like a natural tooth.
Care Steps During Post-Implant Healing
Immediate Aftercare (First 48 Hours)
Control bleeding: Bite gently on gauze as instructed.
Ice compress: Apply to cheek 1520 minutes on, 20 off to reduce swelling.
Avoid: Straws, spitting, smoking, and alcohol to protect the clot and promote healing.
Oral Hygiene
Continue brushing other teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Avoid brushing directly on the implant site for the first few days.
Start warm saltwater rinses (½ teaspoon salt in a cup of warm water) 24 hours post-surgery, 23 times daily.
Soft Diet
Stick to foods like:
Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Scrambled eggs
Oatmeal
Soup (lukewarm)
Avoid crunchy, chewy, or spicy foods during the first 710 days.
Avoid Stress on the Implant
Do not chew on the implant side until advised.
Avoid physical strain, heavy lifting, or vigorous exercise for at least 35 days.
Long-Term Care for Successful Healing
Brush twice daily using low-abrasive, fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily, using floss threaders or water flossers to clean around the implant.
Attend all follow-up appointments at McLevin Dental to monitor healing.
Wear a nightguard if you clench or grind your teeth to prevent excess pressure on the implant.
Watch for Signs That Need Attention
Contact McLevin Dental in Scarborough if you experience:
Bleeding that continues beyond 24 hours
Swelling that worsens after day 3
Severe pain not relieved by medication
A loose feeling in the implant
Signs of infection (pus, bad taste, fever)
How Long Until a Dental Implant Fully Heals?
Soft tissue healing: 12 weeks
Bone integration (osseointegration): 36 months
Full function returns when the crown or bridge is placed after osseointegration.
Protect Your Investment in Your Smile
Dental implants can last 20 years or longer, often a lifetime, with proper care. Your at-home care combined with professional maintenance at McLevin Dental is the key to protecting your implants health.
Trust McLevin Dental for Your Implant Journey
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, were here to support you through every stage of your implant experiencefrom surgery to lifelong care. Our team provides clear instructions, personalized advice, and professional monitoring to ensure your dental implant heals successfully and serves you for years to come.
If you have any questions or concerns about your healing or would like advice on caring for your implant, contact our friendly team today.