Post-implant care: Week 0-6

Getting an implant is a big step toward a stronger, healthier smile. The first six weeks really matter. Healing tissues are sensitive, and a gentle, so consistent routine helps you feel better and protect your investment.

Below is a simple week-by-week plan you can follow alongside your dentist’s instructions. If anything feels off – persistent bleeding, fever, swelling that worsens, or unusual pain – contact your dentist or clinic right away.


The first week is critical - do these 5 steps right

1. Follow your dentist’s plan first. Prioritise the written instructions you received at surgery.

2. Keep the area clean - but gently. Avoid scrubbing the surgical site. Clean adjacent teeth normally, and use a soft brush or implant brush as advised.

3. Rinse as directed. If your dentist recommended a rinse, swish gently (no vigorous rinsing or spitting in the first 24 - 48h unless told otherwise).

4. Choose a soft, cool diet. Avoid very hot foods/drinks, hard crusts, alcohol, and smoking while healing.

5. Watch for warning signs. Call your clinic if bleeding persists, swelling worsens after day 3, you get a fever, or pain escalates.

A friendly tip: Set reminders for meds and rinses. A calm routine reduces stress for everyone.


What you can use at home

(Product selection should follow your dentist’s guidance. If you prefer to shop online, look for gentle, alcohol-free formulas and soft/implant-specific brushes. Here you can find products specifically designed for post surgical implant care.)


Week-by-week plan

Week 0-1: Calm and clean

Morning & evening routine

  • Brush all non-surgical areas as normal; use an ultra-soft brush near the surgical area if allowed.
  • Rinse gently only as instructed by your dentist.
  • Dab a small amount of recommended gel (if prescribed) around the area-never force bristles into the wound.

 

Daytime

  • Stick to soft, cool foods; small, frequent meals.
  • No smoking or alcohol while healing.
  • Short ice-pack intervals can help with swelling in the first 24–48 hours.

 

Call your doctor if bleeding doesn’t reduce, swelling worsens after day 3, fever develops, or pain spikes.

Week 2-3: Gradual return to normal brushing

  • Goal: Reduce plaque gently around the healing site without irritation. Use your dentist-recommended brush technique around the implant.
  • Keep rinsing per advice (if still recommended).

  • Reintroduce more foods; avoid very hard/sticky items.Keep watching for tenderness, bad taste/odour, or redness – report concerns early.

Week 4-6: Build the long-term habit

  • Goal: Protect gums and keep biofilm low around the implant.
  • Brush twice daily (2 minutes), clean between teeth/around the implant (tool as advised by your doctor).

  • Keep using alcohol-free mouthwash if recommended.
  • Book/attend your follow-up visit.

  • Note any soreness or bleeding – share details with your doctor.

FAQs

Can I brush the implant on day 1?
Follow your doctor’s timing; usually you brush nearby teeth normally and avoid the surgical spot at first.

Do I need a special brush?
Many patients benefit from a very soft brush and, later, an implant brush - ask your dentist which size/shape.

Mouthwash or gel?
Only as directed. If a product stings or feels harsh, stop and check with your clinic. Use an oxygen filled mouthwash or gel to ease the healing process.

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