After Dental Implant Surgery
What to Do After Dental Implant Surgery
After undergoing dental implant surgery at Rollar Oral Surgery, there are several steps you should take to ensure proper healing and long-term success of your implants. Below are some important things to do after your surgery. The information below is provided as general information, but every patient and every situation is unique. Patients should download our surgeon’s detailed instructions from our Patient Library.
Click here for surgeon’s detailed instructions
After Placement of Dental Implants – Overview
After undergoing oral surgery, for the first few days following surgery, it's normal to experience:
- Mild swelling and discomfort around the implant site
- Minor bleeding or bruising
- A soft diet and limited physical activity are recommended
Osseointegration
The Foundation for Implant SuccessOne of the most critical stages following dental implant placement is osseointegration — the biological process in which your jawbone bonds with the titanium implant. After placement, bone cells begin to regenerate and reshape around the implant surface. Over time, the bone forms a tight connection with the implant’s microscopic texture, creating a stable and functional foundation. This process typically takes between three and six months, depending on factors such as your overall health, bone density, and the location of the implant.
Without complete integration, the implant cannot withstand normal chewing forces, which may result in loosening, implant failure, or damage to nearby tissues.
During this healing phase:
- The implant gradually becomes firmly embedded in the jawbone
- You may return for follow-up visits to assess progress
- The crown (visible tooth) is not placed until osseointegration is fully achieved
This step is essential to ensure your implant performs like a natural tooth for years to come. While we understand the eagerness to restore your smile quickly, placing the crown prematurely — before the implant has fully fused with the bone — can jeopardize the long-term stability and success of your treatment.
To protect your health and deliver lasting results, our board-certified oral surgeon adheres to evidence-based protocols and professional standards before placing the final restoration.
Temporary Tooth Options
Is a Flipper Right for You?If your implant is placed in a visible area, you may be concerned about your appearance during the healing period. A flipper — a removable, temporary tooth — can be a helpful solution.
Benefits of a flipper:
- Maintains your smile while the implant heals
- Simple to wear and take out
- Cost-effective and non-invasive
Your surgeon will review your individual case and recommend whether a flipper or another temporary option is best for you.
Final Restoration
After the implant has fully bonded with the jawbone, you'll return for placement of the permanent crown. This custom-crafted tooth is designed to blend seamlessly with your natural smile and restore full chewing function.
Common Questions About Dental Implant Surgery
- How long is recovery after dental implant surgery? When can I eat normally, return to work, and resume physical activity?
- What foods are safe to eat after dental implant surgery?
- Is discomfort normal after surgery? What are the best ways to manage pain?
- How should I care for my mouth and maintain oral hygiene during recovery?
- What are the signs of complications such as infection or implant failure? What early symptoms should I watch for?
Your Surgeon Will Guide and Inform
Your surgeon will take time to answer all your questions, tailor your recovery plan, and provide clear instructions so you feel supported and confident throughout the process.
Following your surgeon’s detailed pre- and post-operative guidelines is key to a smooth and successful recovery.
Click here for surgeon’s detailed instructions
Empowering Patients Through Education
Informed Consent & Oral Surgery VideosAt Rollar Oral Surgerywe’re dedicated to providing the best oral surgery experience and part of that means upholding the highest ethical standards. As part of this commitment, we offer a comprehensive Patient Library.
In our Patient Library you will find special videos designed to promote transparency, reduce anxiety and ensure every patient feels confident and well-informed before treatment.
- Informed Consent Videos help patients understand the risks and benefits
- General Education Videos and our other resources help patients fully understand the procedures, the preparation and recovery phases.