You’ve decided to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant. Now you’re wondering how the weeks after surgery will feel. It’s normal to ask how much time off you’ll need, and what you can eat.
This guide walks through dental implant recovery over the first two weeks. Every mouth heals at its own pace, so your dentist’s instructions always come first.
What does dental implant recovery involve?
A dental implant is a small screw, usually made of titanium. It sits in your jawbone and takes the place of a tooth root. The process is usually done in stages over a few months.
The first two weeks are an early healing period. Over about three months, your bone grows around the implant. Your dentist will explain your timeline.
The first 24 hours
After surgery, you might have bruising, pain, swelling of your gums or face, and some bleeding. Ask your dentist for advice if this happens. Your dentist may suggest resting at home and keeping your head raised when you lie down. They may also suggest cool, soft foods, and avoiding chewing near the implant.
Your dentist may also ask you not to spit or rinse hard. Avoid touching the area with your tongue or fingers. Take any pain relief exactly as your dentist or pharmacist advises.
Days two to three
Swelling and bruising may still be there as your mouth settles. Healing varies from person to person.
Keep following your aftercare steps. If swelling keeps growing or you feel unwell, call our team on (03) 9740 2048.
The rest of the first week
Keep to soft foods such as eggs, yoghurt, soup and mashed vegetables while the site heals. Your dentist will tell you how long to continue.
Your dentist will show you how to clean your mouth while the site heals. Some patients are asked to use mouthwash instead of a brush or floss for 2 to 3 weeks.
Week two
Your dentist may book a follow-up visit to check how you’re healing. Ask whether you have stitches and when they’ll come out or dissolve.
Ask when you can return to normal food and exercise. The answer depends on your treatment, so it’s worth checking.
What can you eat in the first two weeks?
Eating can feel tricky after surgery. A few simple rules help. Start with cool, soft foods, then add more variety as your mouth settles.
Good options for the first days include yoghurt, soup that has cooled, scrambled eggs, mashed potato and smoothies without seeds. Your dentist may suggest avoiding very hot drinks at first.
Skip crunchy, chewy or sticky foods for now. Chips, nuts, crusty bread and lollies can irritate the area. Your dentist will tell you when you can return to your usual meals.
Planning your time off
It helps to plan a little rest around your treatment. Time off varies from person to person. Some people plan a day or two at home, and others need longer.
If your job is physical, ask your dentist how long to wait. Heavy lifting and hard exercise may affect healing. Your dentist can give you advice that fits your treatment.
Simple ways to support healing
These steps may help, but your own dentist’s instructions always come first:
- Follow every instruction your dentist gives you.
- Eat soft foods while the surgery site heals.
- Ask whether you should use mouthwash instead of a brush or floss near the site for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Use pain relief and any other medicines exactly as your dentist or pharmacist directs.
- Tell your dentist if you smoke, and ask for advice.
- Tell your dentist about your medicines and health conditions.
- Keep every follow-up appointment.
Also read: Do Dental Implants Hurt?
When to call your dentist
Some discomfort is normal, but certain signs are worth a call. Contact our team on (03) 9740 2048 if you notice:
- Bleeding that doesn’t ease with gentle pressure
- Swelling that keeps growing after the first few days
- Pain that is getting worse instead of better
- A fever, a bad taste or pus near the implant
- Numbness that doesn’t go away
- An implant or crown that feels loose
Go to the nearest hospital emergency department if you have trouble breathing or swallowing. Do the same if swelling spreads to your eye or neck. You can also call triple zero (000).
What can change your healing time?
Healing is personal. Some health conditions, such as osteoporosis or diabetes, can affect your jawbone. Gum disease and smoking may also raise the chance of complications.
Some medicines can affect whether an implant is suitable. Tell your dentist about your health history and everything you take. They can then plan your care around you.
Looking after your implant for the long term
Recovery doesn’t end after two weeks. Your implant needs the same daily care as your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, clean between your teeth, and keep your regular check-ups.
Looking for a dentist for dental implants in Sunbury, Victoria? Book a consultation with our dental team on our online booking page or call us on (03) 9740 2048. You can also read about our dental implants in Sunbury. We’d love to answer your questions!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does dental implant recovery take?
The first two weeks are an early healing period. It takes about three months for bone to grow around the implant. Your dentist can give you a timeline based on your treatment.
Can I go back to work after dental implant surgery?
Time off varies from person to person. It depends on your treatment and how you feel, so ask your dentist before you plan time off.
What can I eat after a dental implant?
Start with cool, soft foods like yoghurt, soup, eggs and mashed vegetables. Your dentist may suggest avoiding hard, crunchy or very hot foods near the implant. They will tell you when you can return to your usual diet.
Is pain normal after dental implant surgery?
You might have some pain after surgery. Ask your dentist for advice. Contact them if pain gets worse instead of better.
