Dental implant surgery is a transformative procedure that restores your smile, improves oral function, and boosts confidence. While dental implants are highly successful and durable, the healing process following surgery is crucial for long-term success. Proper care during recovery not only supports healing but also helps prevent infection and implant failure.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we prioritize your comfort and successful healing. This comprehensive recovery care guide for post-surgical implants will help you navigate every stage of your recovery with ease.
What to Expect After Dental Implant Surgery
Its completely normal to experience:
Mild swelling around the jaw and cheeks
Minor bleeding or oozing for the first 24 hours
Discomfort or soreness near the surgical site
Bruising around the face or jaw
A feeling of tightness or pressure as the gum tissue heals
These symptoms generally improve within 3 to 5 days, with soft tissue healing continuing over the next 12 weeks.
Immediate Post-Operative Care Tips
1. Control Bleeding
Bite down on the gauze placed by your dentist for at least 3060 minutes.
If bleeding persists, replace with fresh gauze and apply light pressure.
2. Reduce Swelling
Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face for 1520 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first 2448 hours.
Keep your head elevated when resting or sleeping.
3. Rest and Take It Easy
Limit physical activity for at least 4872 hours.
Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, or strenuous exercise that may increase swelling or bleeding.
Nutrition for Implant Recovery
Soft Food Diet:
Eat soft, nutrient-dense foods like:
Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Scrambled eggs
Smooth soups (lukewarm)
Applesauce
Soft pasta
Avoid chewing directly on the implant site.
Avoid:
Crunchy, chewy, or spicy foods
Extremely hot or cold foods in the first few days
Alcohol and carbonated drinks during the early healing stage
Hydration is Essential:
Drink plenty of water.
Avoid straws for the first 57 days to prevent suction that could disturb the blood clot.
Oral Hygiene After Implant Surgery
1. Keep the Area Clean
Avoid brushing directly over the surgical site for the first few days.
Brush surrounding teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Start Salt Water Rinses (After 24 Hours)
Rinse with 1 tsp salt in 1 cup of warm water 23 times daily to clean the area and reduce bacteria.
3. Avoid Commercial Mouthwashes with Alcohol
They can irritate healing tissues.
4. Use Any Antibacterial Rinse as Prescribed
Your dentist may provide a special rinse to support healing and minimize infection risk.
Medications and Pain Management
Take prescribed medications exactly as directed.
Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to manage discomfort and inflammation if approved by your dentist.
Complete the full course of antibiotics if prescribed.
Avoid These During Healing
Smoking (significantly increases implant failure risk)
Alcohol (slows healing and increases infection risk)
Straws or any suction movements
Touching or poking the surgical site with fingers or tongue
Signs of Healthy Healing vs. When to Call
Normal Healing:
Swelling peaks at 4872 hours, then decreases
Minor bruising
Mild soreness improving day by day
Contact McLevin Dental If You Notice:
Increasing pain after 35 days
Persistent or excessive bleeding
Swelling that worsens instead of improving
Pus, foul taste, or signs of infection
Fever or chills
How Long Does Healing Take?
Soft tissue healing: 12 weeks
Osseointegration (bone bonding to implant): 36 months
Once fully healed, the permanent crown or restoration can be placed.
Long-Term Implant Care
Brush and floss daily with special attention to the implant area.
Attend regular cleanings and checkups at McLevin Dental.
Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth to protect the implant.
Avoid habits like biting on hard objects (ice, pens) that could stress the implant.
Your Path to a Stronger, Healthier Smile
Proper care after dental implant surgery is key to a smooth recovery and a successful, long-lasting smile. With rest, good hygiene, gentle nutrition, and close follow-up with our team, your dental implant can serve you beautifully for many years.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we are committed to helping you through every step of the implant process. If you have questions or concerns during recovery, dont hesitate to reach out. Your comfort and your smile are always our top priorities.