What to Expect After Getting a Dental Implant: Recovery Timeline & Tips
If you're planning to get a dental implant, you're probably wondering what the recovery process looks like.
The good news? Most patients find that healing after implant surgery is easier than expected, and with the right care, you'll be well on your way to a stronger, more confident smile!
Here at Goehring Dental in Austin, TX, we guide you through every step of the process so you know exactly what to expect. Below, we’re breaking down the typical dental implant recovery timeline, along with tips to make healing as smooth as possible.
Please note: Every patient heals differently. Your personal recovery timeline may vary based on your health, the number of implants placed, and other individual factors. We’ll provide specific guidance tailored to your needs.
First 24 Hours After Surgery
Immediately after your procedure, it’s normal to experience some mild swelling, soreness, or bleeding. We’ll give you detailed post-op instructions to help manage your symptoms and promote healing.
What to expect:
Mild discomfort around the surgical site
Swelling of the gums or face
Minor bleeding or oozing
Numbness (from local anesthesia)
What you can do:
Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off)
Rest and avoid strenuous activity
Stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt, applesauce, or smoothies
Take any prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed
Days 2–7: Early Healing Phase
Most swelling and soreness peak within the first 48–72 hours, then start to subside. You’ll likely feel much more comfortable by the end of the first week.
What to expect:
Swelling begins to decrease
Minor discomfort may linger
Bruising may appear (especially on the cheeks or jaw)
What you can do:
Continue eating soft foods
Rinse with warm saltwater (starting day 2) to keep the area clean
Avoid chewing directly on the implant site
Brush gently around the area, being careful not to disturb the healing gum tissue
Weeks 2–6: Osseointegration Begins
Behind the scenes, your body is working to fuse the implant with your jawbone, a process called osseointegration. While you’ll likely feel back to normal, this stage is crucial for the long-term success of your implant.
What to expect:
Most symptoms will be gone
You'll return for follow-up visits so we can monitor healing
The implant will remain under the gum or with a healing cap until it’s ready for the crown
What you can do:
Keep up excellent oral hygiene
Continue eating a balanced diet (introduce firmer foods as tolerated)
Avoid smoking or using straws, which can interfere with healing
Months 2–6: Final Restoration
Once the implant has fully integrated with your bone, usually around 3 to 6 months, we’ll attach the final crown, bridge, or denture. This is the moment when your smile is fully restored!
You’ll enjoy:
A natural-looking, fully functional tooth
Improved chewing ability and confidence
Long-term support for your oral health
At this point, your implant will look and feel like it’s always been there!
How Goehring Dental Supports Your Recovery
Here at Goehring Dental, we take a proactive approach to implant aftercare. From personalized instructions to follow-up visits and check-ins, we’re here to make sure your recovery stays on track. Dr. Goehring and our team have years of experience placing and restoring dental implants, so you're in good hands every step of the way!
Restore your smile with long-lasting, natural looking results!
Whether you’re replacing one tooth or several, dental implants are a durable, esthetic solution and our team is here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible! Contact Goehring Dental today by giving us a call at (512) 892-8822 or contact us by filling out the form below. Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!
