What to Expect in the Days After Dental Implant Surgery

Getting dental implants is an effective way to replace damaged or missing teeth. The procedure can be lengthy, usually taking multiple dental visits over several months. Each patient is different, with some requiring additional treatment steps based on their oral health condition. The number of implants required will also determine the treatment duration.

Immediately After Surgery 

Patients often feel groggy immediately after the procedure. The sensation you experience will depend on the type and level of sedation used. You can expect slight bleeding, swelling, and seeping on the site of treatment. 

You should avoid poking at the surgical site using your tongue or fingers and refrain from pulling at your lip. Local anesthesia will wear off a few hours after the surgery, and you will experience some discomfort. Pain medications can help relieve the discomfort. 

The Initial 24 Hours After Surgery

Avoid brushing the teeth around the surgical site for the initial 24 hours after implant surgery. You should, however, brush and floss the rest of your teeth, but avoid rinsing or spitting as it could cause bleeding. Do not smoke or use drinking straws in the first 24 hours. Consume a soft or liquid diet on the first day after surgery. 

Avoid spicy or hot foods and alcoholic or carbonated beverages. You may experience increased sensitivity to heat and cold. Avoid strenuous activities, and rest as much as possible the day after surgery.

Two to Three Days After Surgery 

The swelling around your face will likely peak around the second or third day. Applying a cold compress or ice pack over the area can alleviate the discomfort. Wrap a towel or cloth over the ice pack before placing it on your face. You can use a cold compress multiple times for about 20 minutes each time. 

After 36 hours, you can use moist heat to reduce further swelling. Use a warm saltwater rinse three times a day to soothe discomfort and boost healing. The surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment to check your progress. 

Signs of Infection 

It is normal to experience some bruising, redness, and swelling soon after dental implant surgery. The swelling should begin to go down after four to five days. You may be infected if you experience persistent swelling or it worsens after it begins to subside. 

Signs of infection include severe pain that continues to worsen and redness and irritation that goes beyond the surgical site. Fever, a foul taste, and pus discharge from the area around the implant are other signs of infection. If you experience the symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. 

Maintaining Implant Results

Getting dental implants will give you a new beautiful smile. Taking care of your oral health will allow you to enjoy your smile for a long time. Following postsurgical instructions will reduce the risk of complications. 
 

Some patients experience nausea and vomiting after dental surgery. It is usually a reaction to the anesthesia and should resolve within a few hours. It is common to experience swelling or redness around the IV site, but if it persists, contact the surgeon. Medications and dehydration can cause bowel irregularities after dental surgery. If you experience constipation or diarrhea, consult your doctor.

For more on what to expect in the days after dental implant surgery, visit The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry at our Destin, Panama City Beach, or Navarre, Florida offices. Call 850-810-0300, 850-810-0600, or 850-409-6400 to schedule an appointment today.