After getting a dental implant, there are always lingering questions: When can I eat? How do I take care of it? Do I need to avoid hot foods? The list goes on. Implants are a great long-term solution, especially as we get older.
We’ve put together a friendly aftercare guide that covers the most common questions and helps you confidently look after your implant.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small, strong post made of titanium that’s placed in your jawbone to act as a replacement for your tooth root. It bonds with your bone, which then creates a sturdy foundation for dentures, crowns (also known as caps) or bridges. It’s a long-lasting replacement for your tooth and can make a big difference to how you eat, sleep and feel as a whole.
With the right care, implants can last just as long as your natural teeth. As we age, comfort and reliability become even more important, which is why following aftercare advice is key to a smooth recovery.
At practices like Staina House Dental Practice, implants are carefully restored by highly experienced dentists to deliver expert, long-lasting results.
Immediate Aftercare for Dental Implants
After you’ve had your implant fitted, you’ll be able to go home as soon as you feel ready and comfortable. Be sure to rest until the anaesthetic wears off, which may take a few hours. Most people return to their usual everyday routine within a day of the treatment, but it’s wise to take it easy and avoid anything too strenuous, like heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.
You might notice some bleeding, swelling or soreness; this is completely normal, and light bleeding should ease within a day or two. To help, gently bite on a damp gauze to control it, and if it continues or worsens, contact your dentist. Any discomfort is usually treated with regular painkillers and should only last up to a week. Healing can take a little longer as we get older, so give yourself time.
Helpful Do’s and Don’ts for Healing
Here are a few things you should and shouldn’t do while your implant is healing.
Do:
- Eat soft foods for at least a week following the treatment
- Keep your mouth as clean as possible
- Rinse your mouth with recommended mouthwash 3-4 times a day, starting 24 hours after treatment
- Take any prescribed antibiotics
- Take over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed
- Have cold drinks only whilst the anaesthetic is still active
Don’t:
- Eat hot food or drink hot drinks for the first 24 hours
- Use straws or suck on anything, such as an e-cigarette
- Do anything too strenuous for a few days (running/gym)
- Touch your implant with your fingers or tongue
- Drink alcohol or smoke for at least two weeks
- Wear any dentures that cover the affected area
- Swill liquids over the implant
Managing pain, swelling and stitches
Recovery times can vary slightly depending on your age and overall health, so don’t worry if things take a little longer to settle. Pain can usually be managed with standard painkillers. Take your first dose before the anaesthetic wears off and continue regularly for the first 2-3 days.
Extra comfort tips:
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling for the first 24 hours
- After 24 hours, gentle heat (like a warm cloth) can ease soreness
- Sleep with your head propped up on 2-3 pillows to help reduce swelling
- Try saltwater rinses (1 tsp of salt in warm water) a couple of times a day
If you experience increasing pain and swelling after a few days, make sure to contact your dentist to check for infection. If you get prescribed antibiotics for your dental implant, please complete the full course prescribed.
Cleaning Advice
Keeping the mouth clean is essential for healing. Begin using the recommended mouthwash the morning after surgery, and continue for a week. This keeps the area free from plaque, which is a sticky layer of bacteria that builds up on the teeth.
As we get older, our gums can become more sensitive, so daily cleaning is even more important for keeping your implant and your natural teeth healthy. You can begin brushing your other teeth the same evening, but avoid the affected area until your follow-up appointment.
Try to keep food away from the surgical area as much as possible, and gently rinse after eating. Hot saltwater rinses can be helpful, just make sure the water isn’t too hot. As always, avoid smoking, as it can slow the healing process.
If you feel unsure or have any questions during recovery, get in touch with your dentist.
Follow-up appointment
You’ll need an appointment 7 to 14 days after treatment. This is to check how your wound is healing. Gently clean the area and remove stitches if needed. We’ll either book this before you leave or send you the appointment details.
It’s also important to continue attending regular check-ups to keep your implant and overall oral health in good shape, especially as we age and our dental needs change. Any dental restorations (replacements for missing or damaged teeth), including dentures, also need regular follow-up care.
Long-term aftercare for dental implants
With good care, your dental implant can last a long time. Think of them just like natural teeth and maintain cleanliness. A few long-term tips:
- Brush twice a day for 2 minutes with a soft or electric toothbrush
- Use interdental brushes or floss daily (your dentist may recommend specific cleaning aids)
- Avoid smoking, your dentist will advise quitting before treatment
- Brush all surfaces of your teeth
- Replace your toothbrush regularly
- Visit your dental hygienist for regular deep cleans
As we get older, staying on top of oral hygiene becomes even more important. Implants offer freedom and comfort, so it’s worth protecting your investment with daily care.
And remember, at Staina House Dental Practice, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
