Implant aftercare: the first days and the long term

The success of implant treatment depends not only on the surgery but also on the care that follows. In the first days the wound needs to heal; in the years after, the health of the gum around the implant needs protecting.

The first 24 hours

• Bite on the gauze that has been placed for about half an hour.
• Do not spit, rinse your mouth or use a straw.
• Apply cold to the outside of your cheek for 10 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.
• Do not eat until the numbness has gone; after that have lukewarm, soft foods.
• Stay away from hot drinks, alcohol and smoking.
• Rest; do not do heavy exercise, and keep your head raised when lying down.

The first week

• Swelling and bruising: These peak on the second and third day and then go down. This is to be expected.
• Oral hygiene: Keep brushing your other teeth. In the surgical area use the mouthwash your dentist recommends and a very soft brush.
• Diet: Soft, lukewarm foods; do not chew on the side of the surgery. Avoid foods with small grains such as sesame and seeds.
• Medication: Take the prescribed medication as directed and for the full course.
• Stitches: Usually removed within a week to ten days.
• Temporary denture: If you wear one it must not press on the surgical area; let us know if it rubs.

Which signs mean you should call your dentist?

• Bleeding that does not stop despite the gauze
• Pain or swelling that increases after the third day
• Fever, a bad smell or a discharge of pus
• Numbness of the lip, chin or tongue that does not pass
• A feeling that the implant or the healing cap is moving

During the healing period

It takes a few months for the implant to integrate with the bone. During this time do not load the implant area with hard foods, keep your check-up appointments and maintain your oral care.

Once the tooth is fitted: daily care

1. Brush twice a dayWith a soft brush, paying attention to the edge where the implant crown meets the gum.
2. Clean in betweenClean both sides of the implant every day with an interdental brush or the thick floss made for implants.
3. You can use a water flosserUseful under bridges and with multi-implant prostheses; in addition to brush and floss, not instead of them.
4. Come for a check-up every six monthsThe gum around the implant is measured, the bone level is monitored with an X-ray if needed, and professional cleaning is carried out.

What is peri-implantitis?

An implant does not decay, but the gum and bone around it can become inflamed. This is called peri-implantitis and it is the most common cause of implant loss. The first signs are bleeding on brushing and redness and swelling of the gum; there is usually no pain. Caught early, it is brought under control with cleaning and care. The risk factors are inadequate cleaning, smoking, uncontrolled diabetes and a history of gum disease.

To protect your implant

• Do not crack very hard things such as ice or nuts in hard shells with an implant.
• If you clench your teeth, wear a night guard.
• If you notice movement, a noise or a difference when chewing, come for a check-up without waiting; a loosened screw causes no trouble when tightened early.

For the stages of treatment see our implant page and our implant guide.

Frequently asked questions

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If you have a complaint, please see your dentist.