The first week after implant surgery follows a predictable pattern. Knowing when swelling peaks and which signs are not normal makes it far easier.
The first week after implant surgery usually follows a predictable curve: swelling and tenderness rise for two days, ease from day three, and by the end of the week daily life is largely back to normal. Knowing the pattern removes most of the worry.
The first twenty-four hours
Numbness fades within hours, so take care not to bite your lip or tongue. Intermittent cold packs on the cheek limit swelling. Do not rinse, spit or use a straw on day one; keeping the clot in place is the foundation of healing. A pink tinge in saliva is normal.
Days two and three
Swelling usually peaks on day two and mild bruising may appear on the cheek. From day three, gentle warmth is often more helpful than cold. Use the prescribed mouthwash as directed and keep brushing the rest of the mouth, avoiding the surgical site.
Day four to the end of the week
Swelling drops noticeably and most patients no longer need painkillers. Sutures usually come out at the end of the first week or by day ten, at an appointment where the site is checked and the next stage explained.
Eating
- Warm, soft food on day one; nothing hot
- Soup, yoghurt, purees, well-cooked vegetables
- Chewing on the opposite side
- Avoiding nuts and crisps that leave sharp fragments
- Drinking plenty of water
- Avoiding alcohol and fizzy drinks at first
What to avoid
Smoking, heavy exercise, saunas, sleeping face down and poking the site with tongue or finger all hinder healing. After upper jaw surgery, do not blow your nose forcefully. Mention any planned flight in advance, especially after sinus-related procedures.
Signs that are not normal
Pain that keeps increasing or does not respond to medication, new pain after day three, bleeding that will not stop, fever, difficulty opening the mouth, bad odour or discharge do not fit the expected pattern. Contact the clinic straight away; emergency dental care is available at night as well.
If you have a temporary prosthesis
A soft diet matters even more. If the temporary feels like it is pressing on the surgical site, do not adjust it yourself; ask the clinic to check the fit.
After the first week
The process then goes quiet as integration proceeds, with scheduled reviews until the impression stage. The first week is the most demanding part of implant treatment. Our Muratpasa clinic is open around the clock, every day of the week.
