What is normal after surgery
The first 48 hours are usually the most uncomfortable. You may have pain, swelling, nausea and slight bleeding. Pain tends to peak in the first six hours and then ease considerably. Most people feel better by the third day. Some swelling may remain, but you can usually start eating normally. After that, healing should be gradual and steady.
- Bleeding
- Nausea
- Pain
- Swelling
Medication affects people differently. If your pain medication is not giving enough relief, call us rather than adding something on your own. If you are not improving, call the office right away.
Right after the procedure
- Leave the area alone. Do not keep pulling your lip to look at it.
- Your dentist places stitches to protect the gum. If they are not the self-dissolving kind, only the dentist should remove them.
- You may have a healing cap or, in some cases, a temporary crown over the implant. Do not chew on it, or the implant could loosen.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, bending and lifting for at least three to four days, since they can prolong bleeding, pain and swelling.
- Rest for the rest of the day, and stand up slowly because you may feel lightheaded.
Eating and drinking
Eat nutritious foods you can swallow without pain. In the first days, liquids and purees such as pudding, soup, yogurt and milkshakes are a good choice, though not required. Skip very hot foods, and skip straws for a few days, because suction can irritate the wound. Avoid foods that lodge near the site, such as sunflower seeds, rice, nuts and popcorn. Return to solid foods gradually as you heal. Do not skip meals, since nourishment helps recovery. If you have diabetes, keep your usual meal routine or ask us for instructions.
Keeping the area clean
Do not rinse right after surgery. If you have gauze, press it on the site to stop bleeding. The night after the procedure, brush gently around the treatment area with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Starting 24 hours after surgery, rinse with warm salt water two or three times a day, usually after eating, letting it drip into the sink. Ice packs help with swelling.
Habits that slow healing
Smoking cuts the oxygen your body needs to heal, and it raises the risk of infection. Caffeine and alcohol are best avoided too. Drink water to stay hydrated.
Follow-up appointments
Come to every follow-up visit. We check that the implant is fusing with the bone and that there is no inflammation or infection. People with implants have a slightly higher risk of gum disease, which can lead to implant failure, so we want to catch any problem early. The number of visits depends on your treatment plan.
Call us if pain, swelling or other symptoms are not improving or are getting worse: (781) 289-3331.
Common questions
When can I go back to work?
Swelling and soreness usually last three to five days. It helps to have surgery near the end of the week. For example, with a Thursday procedure, many people are back at work by Tuesday.
What can slow my recovery?
Uncontrolled diabetes can complicate healing, and smoking raises the risk of infection and slows healing. Tell your dentist about any condition that might affect your recovery.
Is there recovery after the final tooth is placed?
Very little. The surgical part happens when the implant is placed. After the jaw heals around it, attaching the final tooth is much easier. Some gum sensitivity is possible, and it can be eased with ibuprofen.
How do I avoid infection?
Keep your mouth as clean as you can starting the day after surgery. Brush after meals and before bed with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Do not rinse right after surgery, and use gauze to control bleeding.