The First 48 Hours After an Implant: Dos and Don'ts

Why are the first two days so important?

Bone fusing with an implant takes months, but the groundwork is laid in the first 48 hours. A clot forms, bleeding stops, and healing cells are carried to the area. Dislodging the clot or infecting the site can affect the following months.

The first 24 hours: cold, calm, patience

• Cold application. 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, on the outside of the cheek, wrapped in a thin cloth.
• Bite pressure. Bite firmly on the sterile gauze given after surgery for 30–45 minutes.
• Do not rinse. Rinsing, spitting or sucking motions can dislodge the clot on the first day.
• Keep your head elevated. Using two pillows reduces throbbing.

Day two: getting moving and hygiene

From the second day you can gently rinse with warm salt water. Take prescribed antibiotics and painkillers on schedule.

Things to strictly avoid

• Smoking. The single strongest cause of implant failure.
• Alcohol. Avoid for the first week.
• Heavy exercise. Can trigger bleeding in the first 3–4 days.

When to call your dentist

Contact us without delay for bleeding lasting more than 24 hours, increasing or spreading pain, or a fever above 38°C.