If you have recently undergone dental implant surgery, you may be concerned by swelling around the mouth, cheeks, eyes, and sides of the face. Like any surgical procedure, your body needs time and proper care to recover. A combination of the following strategies can help reduce discomfort and support a smooth recovery:
- Rest: Allow your body time to heal, especially in the first 48 hours. Avoid strenuous activities, including work and exercise, for at least one week. Gradually reintroduce normal activities as your body allows.
- Stay Hydrated: Sip cool liquids like water, herbal tea, and thin smoothies to support your body’s natural healing. Avoid carbonated beverages and do not use a straw, as suction can disrupt healing at the surgical site.
- Saltwater Rinses: Starting 24 hours after surgery, gently rinse with warm saltwater (½ to 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) two to three times daily. This helps soothe the area, reduce swelling, and prevent infection.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are usually effective for managing pain. Be sure to follow the dosing instructions. If necessary, your surgeon may prescribe stronger pain relievers for the first few days, though many patients manage well without them.
- Eat Soft Foods: For the first week, stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, yogurt, pudding, soup, oatmeal, cottage cheese, macaroni, and smoothies. Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or spicy foods that could irritate the surgical site. Smoking and alcohol should also be avoided, as they can slow the healing process.
- Cold Compresses: Apply cold packs to the outside of the face for 10 to 15 minutes during the first 48 hours. This helps minimize swelling and provides temporary numbing for pain relief. You can use a bag of frozen peas or corn wrapped in a towel.
- Moist Heat: After 48 hours, switch to warm, moist heat to reduce residual swelling and ease jaw stiffness. Be careful not to apply too hot heat, as it could burn the skin.
How Long Will Swelling Last?
Swelling typically peaks between 48 and 72 hours after surgery and gradually subsides. However, depending on the number of implants placed and whether bone grafting was required, some swelling may last up to 10 days.
If swelling worsens after three days and is accompanied by pain or fever, contact your dental provider. These symptoms may indicate an infection, which can compromise the implant site. Pus, increasing pain, or a foul taste around the area are warning signs that require professional attention.
Maintaining good oral hygiene and caring for your body are key to a successful outcome. Continue brushing and flossing gently as advised to prevent infection and support healing.
Rest Easy with Care from the South Jersey Oral Surgeons at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
If you are experiencing discomfort from a dental implant or simply want to learn more about the procedure, the South Jersey oral surgeons at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons are here to help. Call 856-582-4222 or contact us online to schedule your consultation. With offices in Washington Township, Haddonfield, and Woolwich Township, we proudly serve patients throughout South Jersey.