How to care for a new dental implant during healing

Once your implant is placed, the healing months are when your daily habits matter most. Here is a gentle, practical routine many patients find helpful. Your dentist's instructions always come first, since every mouth heals a little differently. For background on the full process, see our dental implants guide.

Step 1: Protect the area in the first few days

1. Rest on the day of surgery and avoid strenuous activity.
2. Stick to soft, cool or lukewarm foods.
3. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
4. Avoid poking the site with your tongue or fingers.
5. Skip smoking and alcohol, as both can interfere with healing.

Some swelling and mild discomfort can be normal early on. If it seems to be getting worse instead of better, let us know.

Step 2: Keep the area clean

1. Brush your other teeth as usual, twice a day.
2. Use a soft-bristled brush near the implant site, with light pressure.
3. Rinse gently as directed. Your dentist may suggest a saltwater or prescribed rinse.
4. Once cleared, clean around the implant daily, including between teeth.

Step 3: Ease back into regular foods

As comfort improves, you can slowly add firmer foods. Avoid very hard or sticky items, such as ice or caramel, until your dentist says the implant has healed well.

Step 4: Keep your follow-up visits

Check-ups let us see how bone and gums are settling. Healing often takes about four to six months, though timing varies with bone quality and overall health.

When to call us

• Bleeding that does not ease
• Increasing swelling or pain
• A feeling that the implant or crown is loose
• A bad taste or signs of infection

We would rather hear from you early than have you worry at home. Questions about your healing? Call 604-535-8835 or visit our new patient page.