Implant Surgery After-Care

The First 24 Hours

Light bleeding or pink saliva is common. Bite on gauze with steady pressure as directed.
Avoid forceful rinsing, spitting, straws and other suction.
Wait until the numbness has worn off before chewing, and be careful with hot foods and drinks.
Rest with your head slightly elevated and avoid strenuous activity for the remainder of the day.

Swelling and soreness are often most noticeable during the second or third day and should then begin to improve.
Use an ice pack on the outside of the face during the first day as directed.
Take prescribed or over-the-counter medication according to the instructions provided.
Mild bruising or jaw stiffness can occur and should gradually settle.

Choose soft, nutritious foods during the first several days.
Avoid chewing directly on the implant site until your dentist tells you it is safe.
Avoid very hot, spicy, crunchy or sharp foods if they irritate the area.
Drink plenty of water, but avoid straws for the period recommended by your dentist.

Do not rinse during the first 24 hours unless your dentist gave you different instructions.
After the first day, gentle warm salt-water rinses may be used. Let the water fall from your mouth rather than spitting forcefully.
Brush the rest of your teeth normally. Clean around the surgical site only in the manner demonstrated by your dentist.
Do not use an electric toothbrush, water flosser or other forceful cleaning device directly around the implant until you have been told it is safe.
If a prescription mouth rinse was provided, use it exactly as directed.

Do not touch or wiggle the implant or healing cap with your fingers or tongue.
A small metal healing cap may be visible above the gum. This can be a normal part of the treatment.
If you were given a temporary denture, flipper or other appliance, wear it only as directed. It should not press firmly on the surgical site.
Do not smoke or vape. Tobacco and nicotine can interfere with blood flow and implant healing.
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for the period recommended by your dentist.

Please contact our office if:

Bleeding does not slow with steady pressure.
Pain or swelling is severe, continues increasing after the third day or returns after improving.
You develop fever, pus, drainage or a persistent bad taste.
The implant, healing cap or temporary appliance feels loose or moves.

Seek urgent care for rapidly increasing facial swelling or difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Beaird Family Dental
Poplar Bluff: (573) 778-0200 · Dexter: (573) 624-8005

This guide was written and reviewed by Dr. Justin Shaw, DMD.

Last reviewed, August 1st, 2026.