Dental Implant Recovery

When a patient at byte Dentistry is interested in getting dental implants to restore their smile, Dr. Emdin first sits down with them for an initial consultation. One of the most common questions they ask her is what to expect while recovering from a dental implant procedure. That’s a great question, and Dr. Emdin usually tells them that because the insertion of dental implants is a surgical process there will be a brief recovery period afterwards. However, most of our patients fully recover within a week, but certain factors can shorten or lengthen the healing process.

What to Expect After Dental Implant Surgery

Recovery times can vary based on whether you receive a single implant, multiple implants or All-on-4 (full arch) implants. Generally, it takes about 5 to 7 days of healing time afterwards, and here’s what to expect once your initial implant-insertion procedure is finished:

  • The First Few Hours

    Gauze packs will be applied to the surgical site immediately after surgery that will need to be held in place with your bite for 30 minutes using firm yet gentle pressure. That works for most patients, but if gum bleeding persists switch out the gauze every 30 to 45 minutes until it stops.

  • The First 2 to 3 Days After Surgical Care

    Once you go home, during the first 2 to 3 days you may experience these symptoms which are normal indications that your body is starting to heal:

    • Discomfort
    • Swelling
    • Oozing and slight bleeding from the insertion site
    • Mild bruising or yellowish-green discoloration in the area
    • A sensation of dry lips, a sore throat or stiff jaw muscles, which are all to be expected after having gauze in your mouth

Getting plenty of sleep and taking other precautions after a dental implant procedure will help ensure a speedier recovery. Here are the care tips that we recommend at byte Dentistry:


  • Don’t disturb the surgical site.
  • Gently brush your teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste the night after surgery.
  • After 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with salt water 2 to 3 times per day. 
  • Apply ice packs when needed. After 72 hours have passed, you can also apply moist heat to address any gum and skin discoloration.

What Can I Eat After Dental Implant Surgery?

During the first 7 days after surgery, it’s also important to eat softer foods to protect the insertion site. Food choices like oatmeal, bananas, eggs and healthy shakes are good, while harder food types like nuts, popcorn and apples are not. Acidic or spicy foods and beverages can cause mouth discomfort or even pain, and should also be avoided. Prior to leaving our office, one of our team members will give you detailed dietary and dental hygiene information.

These Can Prolong Recovery Times

Although it usually takes the average dental implant patient 5 to 7 days to fully recover, several factors can prolong the recovery process, such as:

  • The number of implants
  • If you need a sinus lift (augmentation) procedure first
  • If bone grafting is required
  • The rate of osseointegration, which is the process of the implant integrating into your jawbone


Once your procedure is finished and if there are no further complications, plan on a full recovery within a week. If you are still experiencing discomfort after 7 days, it’s best to contact our office.

Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation Today! Ask About Options, Affordable Price and Financing

At byte Dentistry, we are a boutique dental practice that offers full-service dentistry backed by a team that’s committed to providing exceptional patient care for all your dental needs. Dr. Emdin is highly trained to perform safe and reliable dental implant surgeries using state-of-the-art technologies and tools within the relaxed surroundings of our Houston dental office. If you would like to schedule a dental implant consultation appointment with Dr. Emdin today, please call byte Dentistry at: (832) 862-1111, or use our convenient patient scheduling form now!

Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation Today! Ask About Options, Affordable Price and Financing

At byte Dentistry, we are a boutique dental practice that offers full-service dentistry backed by a team that’s committed to providing exceptional patient care for all your dental needs. Dr. Emdin is highly trained to perform safe and reliable dental implant surgeries using state-of-the-art technologies and tools within the relaxed surroundings of our Houston office. If you would like to schedule a dental implant consultation appointment with Dr. Emdin today, please call byte Dentistry at: 713-667-3275, or use our convenient patient contact form now!

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