Book Now

Implant Procedure Post-Op Info - Atlas Implant Dentistry

What to Expect After Dental Implant Surgery

Schedule Consultation
staff member doing a dental examination on a dental implant patient

A Step-by-Step Guide to Support a Safe and Strong Recovery

This post-operative guide supports you through the healing process and ensures everything goes as smoothly as possible. It’s normal to experience some swelling, mild discomfort, and minor bleeding after surgery—these are expected parts of the body’s natural healing response.

By carefully following the instructions below, you’ll help protect your implant, reduce the risk of complications, and set the foundation for long-term success! Your comfort and recovery are our top priorities, and we’re here for you every step of the way.

After Your Surgery

  • Bite firmly on the provided gauze for 30–60 minutes without talking or chewing
  • If bleeding continues, replace the gauze with a fresh piece and continue firm pressure
  • Slight oozing or blood-tinged saliva is normal for 24–48 hours
  • Avoid spitting, rinsing, or using straws for the first 24 hours—this can dislodge the clot
  • If bleeding is heavy or persistent after several gauze changes, contact our office immediately
  • Swelling is normal and typically peaks 48–72 hours after surgery
  • Apply an ice pack to the cheek on the surgical side: 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours
  • Keep your head elevated—use extra pillows or sleep in a recliner to help reduce swelling overnight
  • Avoid hot foods, alcohol, and physical exertion, which can increase swelling
  • After 48 hours, switch to warm compresses to promote circulation and healing
  • Take prescribed pain medication as directed, starting before numbness fully wears off
  • You may alternate with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, if recommended
  • Do not wait until the pain is severe—stay ahead of it with scheduled doses
  • Avoid alcohol while taking pain medication
  • If pain worsens after 3–4 days instead of improving, call our office—this may signal a complication
  • Rest for the remainder of the day after surgery—your body needs energy to heal
  • Avoid bending, heavy lifting, or strenuous exercise for at least 48–72 hours
  • Keep your head elevated, even while resting or sleeping, to help reduce swelling
  • Take it slow—resume normal activities only when you feel ready and have minimal discomfort
  • Overexertion too soon can lead to increased bleeding, swelling, and delayed healing
  • First 24 hours: soft, cold foods (think smoothies, yogurt, applesauce)
  • Avoid straws, hot foods/drinks, and chewing near the implant site
  • Gradually return to a regular diet as tolerated
  • Stay hydrated—but sip, don’t slurp!
  • Do not rinse, brush, or spit for the first 24 hours
  • After 24 hours: rinse gently with warm salt water 3–4 times daily
  • Resume gentle brushing, avoiding the surgical site initially
  • Avoid electric toothbrushes and water flossers near the area for 1 week
  • Note if sutures are dissolvable or require removal
  • If healing abutments are placed, don’t touch or try to clean around them aggressively
  • Expect slight discomfort or minor tissue irritation
  • Typical healing timeline (3–6 months for osseointegration to take place)
  • Normal sensations: minor pain, tightness, gum changes
  • Signs of trouble: swelling that worsens, fever, pus, prolonged bleeding
  • Smoking or vaping—this delays healing and increases the risk of failure
  • Alcohol (especially with medications)
  • Touching or poking the implant area
  • Chewing on hard/crunchy foods until cleared by your provider

Have Questions or Concerns?

Contact our office today!
Schedule Consultation
Facebook-f Youtube Google-plus-g Yelp

Naperville, IL

Plymouth, MI

Ashburn, VA

Contact Us

Dental Website by Progressive Dental Marketing

Leave us a Review on Google

© All rights reserved