Aftercare

Dental implant aftercare

Placing the implant is only the first step. What comes next — osseointegration — is the process in which the bone grows around the titanium and locks it in place. This care is essential for that process to go smoothly.

Don't smoke

Smoking is the main cause of implant failure. It reduces blood flow to the bone, interferes directly with osseointegration and increases the risk of infection. Ideally, don't smoke for at least the first week; better yet, for the whole process.

Soft diet for the first few days

Purées, soups, eggs, yogurt. Avoid chewing on the implant area until the tissue has closed properly. Cold things (ice cream, cold water) help reduce the initial swelling.

Don't touch the area with your tongue or fingers

It's a natural reflex to want to explore the area, but the pressure and the germs on your fingers and tongue can compromise healing. Leave it alone.

Cold on the area for swelling

Apply cold to the area (a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth) during the first 48 hours, 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. After that, cold no longer helps.

Gentle hygiene around the area

For the first few days, brush gently around the area without touching the implant directly. You can use the mouthwash we recommended. As it heals, your hygiene routine gradually goes back to normal.

No strenuous exercise for the first few days

Exercise raises your blood pressure and can restart bleeding or cause additional swelling at the surgical site. Wait at least 48–72 hours before getting back to physical activity.

Keep your follow-up appointments

Osseointegration takes between 2 and 4 months. During that time, check-ups let us confirm the process is going well before moving on to the crown stage. Don't skip them, even if you feel fine.

If you're taking medication

Complete the course of antibiotics and painkillers as prescribed. If you have any questions about interactions with other medications you take, check with us before you start.

Warning signs

Some swelling and sensitivity during the first few days is normal. Message us if you notice pain that gets worse instead of better after the third day, fever, bleeding that won't stop, or if the implant feels loose.

One last thing

A well-cared-for implant lasts a lifetime. The difference between one that integrates perfectly and one that fails almost always comes down to the care in the early period. It's worth being careful these weeks.

Save these instructions so you can check them whenever you need to.

Something doesn't feel right? Don't hesitate to message us.

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