​​​💡 Our advice? It is normal to feel some discomfort after any surgery, please do not worry. If you want to chat to us at any time, please get in touch, we are always happy to help.

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⚠️ The rare occasions where you must get in touch immediately are excessive bleeding that does not settle, increasing swelling after 3–4 days, severe or worsening pain or signs of infection (e.g. pus, bad taste, temperature).

Please follow these general post-operative instructions carefully to support healing and reduce the risk of complications after dental implant surgery.

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Immediately After Surgery

• A small amount of blood spotting or oozing is normal during the first 24 hours.

• Avoid rinsing or spitting forcefully as this may disturb the healing site.

• Rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous physical activity for 48–72 hours (anything that will get you out of breath). 

• Do not eat or drink anything too hot for the first 24 hours, especially whilst the local anaesthetic is still wearing off as you may burn your lip, tongue & mouth. 

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Swelling & Bruising

• Mild to moderate swelling is common and usually peaks after 48–72 hours

• On rare occasions bruising may occur and can take 1–2 weeks to resolve.

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Pain Relief

• Take any prescribed or recommended medication exactly as instructed.

• It is usually best to begin pain relief before the local anaesthetic fully wears off.

• Avoid aspirin unless specifically advised, as it may increase bleeding.

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Eating & Drinking
To protect the implant while the bone heals, it is important to remain on a soft diet for approximately 6 weeks following surgery. Even more so if we have provided you with a temporary crown on your new implant. 

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Recommended foods include:

• Soup

• Pasta

• Fish

• Eggs

• Yoghurt

• Mashed potatoes

• Soft vegetables

• Smoothies

Please avoid:

• Hard or crunchy foods

• Nuts

• Crisps

• Seeds

• Chewing directly over the implant site

• Sticky foods

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Oral Hygiene

• Continue brushing your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical area for the first few days or brushing gentle with a soft manual toothbrush. 

• From the day after surgery, gently rinse with warm salty water 3–4 times daily, especially after meals. Continue doing this for a minimum of 2 weeks. 

• Do not use mouthwash for the first 2 weeks whilst the implant heals. 

• Good oral hygiene is essential for successful healing.

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Smoking & Alcohol

• Do not smoke for at least 2 weeks after surgery. Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure and delayed healing.

• Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours and while taking antibiotics or strong pain medication.

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Additional Considerations

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If a Soft Tissue Flap Was Lifted
In some implant procedures, a small gum flap (soft tissue flap) is gently lifted to allow access to the bone beneath.
If this was performed:

• Expect slightly more swelling and tenderness.

• Avoid pulling the lip or cheek to inspect the area.

• The gum tissue may appear uneven or bruised initially — this is normal during healing.

If Sutures (Stitches) Were Used
Sutures are commonly placed to help stabilise the gum tissue during healing.
Some sutures dissolve on their own; others may need removal at a review appointment (we will advise you on what type of sutures we have used and if a suture removal appointment is needed). 

• Avoid touching or pulling at the stitches with your tongue or fingers.

• If a stitch loosens or falls out early, this is not always a problem, but please contact the practice if you are concerned.

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When to Contact the Practice
Please contact us if you experience:

• Excessive bleeding that does not settle

• Increasing swelling after 3–4 days

• Severe or worsening pain

• Signs of infection (pus, bad taste, fever)

• Implant mobility or trauma to the area

• Any concerns about healing

If you have any concerns following your procedure, please contact the practice for advice.