Short answer: In the first days after an implant is placed, mild to moderate pain, swelling and tenderness are common; in most cases these symptoms ease within a few days. The implant fusing with the bone, however, usually takes a few months. The total length of treatment varies with the bone condition, whether additional procedures are needed and how quickly the person heals.
The first 24 hours
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, with the area numbed. Once the anaesthetic wears off, aching and tenderness may start in the area. General recommendations for the first day are:
- Bite on the gauze pad your dentist placed for as long as you were told.
- In the first hours, applying cold to the outside of the face at intervals can help limit swelling.
- Do not rinse your mouth vigorously, spit or drink through a straw; these can dislodge the blood clot that has formed.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol; smoking can have a negative effect on healing.
- Keeping your head slightly raised while sleeping can help reduce swelling.
The first few days: pain, swelling and bruising
Swelling usually becomes noticeable within the first two to three days and then gradually goes down. Some people may get bruising on the cheek or jaw; this is more likely especially where more than one implant has been placed or bone has been added. The level of pain varies with the extent of the procedure, the number of implants and the person's pain threshold.
Painkillers and, if needed, antibiotics are recommended by your dentist, taking into account your health and the other medicines you take. Take the medicines prescribed for you as recommended; do not add or stop medicines on your own.
Eating: what can you eat and what should you avoid?
In the first days, soft foods that are lukewarm or cold and do not strain the implant area are preferred:
- Yoghurt, ayran (yoghurt drink), pudding, milk pudding
- Lukewarm soups, vegetable purée, mashed potato
- Eggs, well-cooked pasta, soft rice
- Soft fruit such as bananas
For a while you need to avoid hard, crunchy, sticky and very hot foods, as well as seeds and nuts. If possible, chew on the side without the implant. Your dentist will tell you when you can go back to a normal diet based on how you are healing.
Oral care
On the first day you can brush your other teeth without touching the implant area. In the following days you can gently clean the area with a soft brush as your dentist advises and use a mouthwash if it has been recommended. If there are stitches, they are usually removed at a check-up appointment. Once healing is complete, daily cleaning is very important for the implant to stay healthy for a long time; we explain this in detail in our implant cleaning guide.
When should you call your dentist?
Contact your dentist without waiting in the following situations:
- If the pain is getting worse after a few days instead of easing
- If the swelling keeps growing after the third day
- If there is bleeding that does not stop with pressure
- If you notice a fever, a bad smell, a bad taste or discharge from the area
- If numbness in the lip, chin or tongue continues after the anaesthetic has worn off
- If the implant or the healing cap on it moves
How long does implant treatment take?
Implant treatment consists of several stages, and the total time varies from person to person:
- Examination and planning: The amount and structure of the bone are assessed with X-rays and, if needed, 3D imaging. We explain the planning stage in our article on implant planning.
- Preliminary procedures: If needed, tooth extraction, treatment of infection or bone grafting is carried out. These procedures can lengthen the process.
- Placing the implant: The surgical stage is usually completed in a single session.
- Integration (healing) period: The implant fusing with the bone usually takes a few months. This time varies with the area of the jaw, the bone quality and general health. During this period a temporary tooth may be used in visible areas.
- Restoration: Once integration is complete, an impression or scan is taken and the permanent tooth is made on the implant.
In some suitable cases a temporary tooth can be fitted on the implant within a short time; however, the dentist decides whether this is possible by assessing the bone condition and the implant's initial stability. For the general stages of implant treatment and who it suits, see our article who is suitable for dental implants.
Habits that support healing
During the healing period some simple habits can make the process easier. Drinking enough fluids, eating a balanced, soft diet, and avoiding strenuous exercise and tiring tasks that involve bending over in the first days are generally recommended. If you wear a removable denture, ask your dentist when and how you can use it over the implant area; unsuitable pressure can affect healing. Not missing check-up appointments is also important: at these appointments the dentist assesses the stitches, how the gums are healing and the condition of the implant. If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, keeping it under control is particularly important for healing.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does implant pain last?
In most cases pain and tenderness ease noticeably within the first few days. The extent of the procedure and how the person heals can change this; if the pain is increasing, see your dentist.
Is swelling after an implant normal?
Yes, swelling and sometimes bruising are expected symptoms in the first days. Swelling usually becomes noticeable in the first two to three days and then goes down. Swelling that keeps growing should be reported to your dentist.
When can you go back to work after an implant?
This depends on the extent of the procedure and the nature of your work. Many people can return to their daily activities within a short time; for jobs that involve heavy physical effort, ask your dentist for advice.
Can you smoke after an implant?
Smoking can have a negative effect on healing and on the implant fusing with the bone. It is recommended that you avoid smoking before and after the procedure; ask your dentist how long you should stop for.
How can you find out what suits you?
The information here is general; the right option for you is determined through an examination and the dentist's assessment. For appointments and directions, see our contact page.
