From Surgery to Smiling Again
Dental Implant Success and Recovery Guide for You
How Dental Implants Work to Restore Missing Teeth
Everyday Implant Recovery Tips for Long-Term Oral Health
- Gentle Brushing
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth twice daily. Avoid brushing directly over the area for the first three to five days to reduce irritation and promote comfort during the early healing phase.
- Eat Soft Foods
Choose soft, nutritious meals such as yoghurt, scrambled eggs, or mashed vegetables. These foods minimise pressure on the implant site while helping you stay nourished and comfortable during the early recovery stages.
- Cold Compress
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek in the first 48 hours after surgery. This can help reduce swelling and discomfort while supporting a more manageable healing process.
- Follow-Up Appointments
Keep every follow-up appointment as advised. These visits allow your dental provider to check healing progress, adjust care instructions if needed, and confirm that the implant integrates properly with the surrounding bone.
Dental Implant Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
In the first 24 to 48 hours, some swelling, minor bleeding, or numbness around the area is completely normal. Focus on rest and comfort during this time. Cold packs can help ease swelling, and soft, cool foods such as yoghurt are recommended. Some discomfort is expected and usually manageable with medication. If pain worsens and you notice signs of infection, such as unusual discharge, contact your dental team promptly.
From day two to the end of the first week, continue to take things gently. Brush carefully, avoid the surgical area, and use warm salt water rinses, which are recommended. Avoid alcohol and tobacco, as they may interfere with healing. Take medication as prescribed. Some discomfort is expected during this stage and may gradually ease by the end of the week. Rest and avoid strenuous activity to support your body’s recovery.
By now, swelling and tenderness typically begin to ease. Your dentist may remove stitches during a follow-up appointment if this is part of your treatment. Eating may gradually return to normal, but only as advised. Continue gentle brushing and cleaning to support healing and prevent infection. Good hygiene remains important during this stage. Please notify your dental team if you notice anything unexpected or if the discomfort persists.
After the first few weeks, the implant begins to fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This internal healing stage usually takes three to six months. Although you won’t see visible changes, this step is essential for long-term implant stability. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending all follow-up appointments are crucial. Missing visits or poor cleaning habits may affect healing and increase the risk of complications, including implant failure.
Once healing is complete, your dentist will assess whether the implant has properly integrated with the bone. If the area is stable, they may proceed with placing the abutment and final crown or denture. This step helps restore function and a natural-looking appearance. Long-term success depends on daily oral care, avoiding harmful habits, and attending regular checkups to monitor the health of the implant and surrounding tissues.
Our Work, Our Patients’ Happy, Healthy Smiles
*These images display actual patients of our clinic. Every case is different, and treatment outcomes can vary according to individual conditions and needs.
Why Bunbury Locals Trust Us With Dental Implants
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- Proudly Bunbury Locals
- Our team lives and works right here in Bunbury, so when we say we care, it’s personal. When you choose Eversmile Dental, you’re choosing a team that understands the local lifestyle and delivers care with genuine care.
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- Serving Since 2006
- For almost two decades, we’ve helped patients in Bunbury and the South West rebuild their smiles with long-lasting, natural-looking dental implants. With advanced training and hands-on experience, our implant dentists are trusted for their precision and attention to detail. You’re not just getting a tooth—you’re getting peace of mind.
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- Gentle Dental Care for Every Generation
- Dental implants are about more than just restoring function—they help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. At Eversmile Dental, we take a patient-focused approach to care for individuals of all ages. We focus on building a strong, healthy foundation, understanding your goals, and providing treatment that fits seamlessly into your life, both now and for the long term.
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- Personalised Care That Feels Right for You
- Every implant journey is different. That’s why we start with a conversation, not a sales pitch. We’ll guide you through your options with full transparency around cost, timing, and outcomes. You’ll have time to ask questions, feel heard, and make a decision you’re completely comfortable with.
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- Driven by Our Values
- We’re not in the business of pushing procedures—we’re here to help you make informed choices. Honesty, integrity, and patient-first care are at the core of how we operate. If implants are right for you, we’ll guide you through the process with skill and care. If they’re not, we’ll tell you—and offer alternative options.
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- Advanced Technology for Comfort and Precision
- From CBCT to digital planning and in-house 3D printing, we use modern technology to plan and place implants with accuracy and care. This means smoother appointments and better long-term outcomes. You don’t need to travel far for advanced dental care—it’s right here in Bunbury.
What Makes a Dental Implant Procedure Successful?
Dental implant success depends on several clinical and lifestyle factors. Sufficient bone density, healthy gums, and good oral hygiene all contribute to long-term outcomes. Avoiding smoking and attending scheduled reviews are also important, as they support healing and early detection of concerns.
At Eversmile Dental, we combine local experience with a patient-centred approach to care. With proper care, studies show implant survival rates of approximately 95%. Ongoing checkups and personalised guidance help support long-term implant health.
Explore Our Dental Implant Information Pages and Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How painful is dental implant surgery?
Dental implant surgery is performed under local anaesthesia, which is intended to keep the area numb throughout the procedure. You may feel pressure or movement, but pain is generally minimised.
After surgery, it’s common to experience mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, or bruising near the implant site. These symptoms often peak within the first 48 hours and typically ease over three to five days. Pain relief may be recommended depending on your medical history and level of discomfort.
To support your dental implant recovery, it’s important to rest, avoid strenuous activity, and eat soft foods such as yoghurt and mashed potatoes. Understanding what to expect after dental implants may help you feel more prepared. Some patients feel ready to return to light tasks, such as desk work or walking, within two to four days. This depends on individual healing and the nature of their work.
Does dental implant surgery hurt more than a tooth extraction?
Pain experiences vary from person to person. Both procedures are carried out under local anaesthesia, which helps reduce discomfort during treatment. You may feel pressure or vibration, but the area is kept numb throughout.
After surgery, discomfort is expected as part of the healing process. The level and duration can depend on the procedure’s complexity, your general health, and your sensitivity to pain. Discomfort from either treatment usually peaks within 48 hours and improves over three to five days. Your dental professional may recommend pain-relief options tailored to your needs.
How long does pain last after a dental implant procedure?
Mild to moderate discomfort is expected after a dental implant procedure. This usually begins once the anaesthetic wears off and tends to peak within the first 24 to 48 hours.
This discomfort usually improves over three to five days, depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing. If pain increases after the first few days or doesn’t improve as expected, contact your dental professional. This could be a sign that further assessment is needed.
How long does it take to recover from implants?
Initial dental implant recovery usually takes around one to two weeks. During this period, the gum tissue begins to heal, and any swelling or tenderness may gradually reduce.
Deeper healing continues through a process called osseointegration, where the implant bonds with the jawbone. This stage can take three to six months, depending on individual healing and treatment complexity. Successful integration during this period is crucial for achieving long-term dental implant success.
If additional procedures, such as bone grafting, were included, healing may take longer. Your dental provider will monitor your recovery and guide you through appropriate care. If symptoms continue beyond the expected timeframe, a follow-up appointment may be needed.
How do I know if my dental implant is healing properly?
During the first few days, it’s normal to experience mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising near the implant site. These symptoms usually ease within three to five days as part of the dental implant success and recovery journey. Signs that healing may be progressing well include:
- Decreasing discomfort each day:
It’s a good sign if the pain reduces steadily rather than getting worse. Sudden increases in discomfort may require follow-up. - No signs of infection:
The area should not have pus, increasing redness, ongoing swelling, or a fever. These signs could indicate infection and need prompt care. - Healthy gum colour around the implant:
Gums should appear pink and intact. Pale, dark, or inflamed tissue may need to be assessed by your dental provider. - No mobility or loosening of the implant:
A healing implant should feel stable. Movement may suggest an issue with integration and should be checked early.
What are the common problems with dental implants?
While dental implants are widely used to replace missing teeth, certain complications can occur during or after the healing process. Knowing what to expect after dental implants can help you monitor your recovery and seek support if needed. Some possible issues include:
- Infection at the implant site:
This may present as swelling, redness, discharge, or discomfort. Recognising signs of dental implant infection early can help prevent further complications. - Nerve-related discomfort:
If an implant is placed near a nerve, it may lead to tingling, numbness, or sensitivity in the lips, chin, or gums. - Loosening of the implant:
Movement during healing may indicate the implant is not bonding well with the jawbone. Early assessment and follow-up may be needed. - Sinus-related concerns (upper jaw):
Implants placed near the sinus cavity can sometimes cause sinus discomfort. Planning and imaging help reduce this risk. - Changes in the gum or bone around the implant:
Gum recession or bone loss may develop over time. Attending follow-up appointments and following dental implant aftercare tips from your dental professional can support long-term stability.
Each part of the dental implant healing stages may present differently. If anything feels unusual, such as ongoing pain, swelling, or loosening, your provider can assess the site and recommend appropriate care. Early intervention supports a higher chance of long-term dental implant success.
What are the signs of dental implant failure or rejection?
Although dental implants have a high success rate, complications can occur during healing or after placement. Recognising early signs of problems is important so they can be addressed promptly. Common signs that may indicate implant failure or rejection include:
- Persistent pain or discomfort:
While some tenderness is normal after surgery, pain that worsens or does not improve over time may need attention. - Swelling that does not subside:
Swelling generally decreases within three to five days, depending on individual healing and the procedure performed. If it continues or becomes more severe, it could signal an issue. - Implant movement or loosening:
A stable implant should not feel mobile. Any sensation of movement should be checked as soon as possible. - Gum recession or bone loss:
Changes in the gumline around the implant or visible space near the post may indicate poor integration or tissue changes. - Signs of infection:
Watch for redness, pus, a bad taste, or fever. These may be considered dental implant infection signs and should be assessed by your dental provider without delay.
What are the side effects of titanium screws in the body?
Titanium screws are commonly used in dental implants because the material is biocompatible, meaning it is well tolerated by the body and rarely causes a reaction. However, as with any implanted material, there are some risks to be aware of. Possible side effects or complications may include:
- Mild inflammation or sensitivity:
Some patients may experience localised gum irritation around the implant site during early healing, usually within the first three to seven days. This often improves as the surrounding tissue settles and oral hygiene is maintained. - Allergic reaction (rare):
Titanium allergies are uncommon. If they occur, symptoms may include itching, rash, or general discomfort near the implant. - Metal sensitivity:
In very rare cases, sensitivity to titanium may contribute to inflammation or delayed healing. Your dental professional can evaluate symptoms and discuss alternative materials if needed. - Implant-related discomfort:
If the implant does not integrate well with the bone or becomes unstable, discomfort may arise. This is not specific to titanium but may be linked to healing or placement factors.
How long does it take for a dental implant to settle in?
A dental implant settles into the jaw through a process called osseointegration, where the surrounding bone gradually bonds with the implant. This process allows the implant to become stable and able to support a crown or bridge.
In most cases, osseointegration takes around three to six months. The timeframe may vary depending on factors such as individual healing, bone density, and whether procedures like bone grafting were included in treatment.
Your dentist will monitor the healing through follow-up visits and imaging to determine when the implant is ready for restoration.
Why do gums recede around implants, and how can I prevent it?
Gum recession around dental implants can happen when the surrounding tissue begins to pull away from the implant surface. This can expose part of the metal post and affect the appearance or health of the area. Several factors may contribute to gum recession around implants:
- Inadequate oral hygiene:
Plaque buildup near the gumline can lead to inflammation, which may cause the tissue to shrink over time. - Excessive pressure or trauma:
Aggressive brushing and teeth grinding may put a strain on the gum tissue or implant area. - Insufficient soft tissue thickness:
In some cases, the gum tissue may be naturally thin or may have been affected during the surgical procedure. - Implant position or angulation:
If an implant is placed too close to the surface or at an unfavourable angle, it may increase the risk of gum recession.
What are the alternatives to dental implants?
Dental implants are one option for replacing missing teeth, but they may not be suitable for everyone. Several other treatments are available, depending on your oral health, preferences, and the number of teeth missing. The following are some common alternatives:
- Dental bridges:
A bridge uses one or more neighbouring teeth to support a prosthetic tooth. It can restore function and appearance without surgery. - Partial dentures:
These are removable appliances that replace several missing teeth in the same arch. They’re custom-made to fit your mouth and may be taken out for cleaning. - Full dentures:
If all upper or lower teeth are missing, a complete denture may be used to restore your ability to chew and speak comfortably. - Resin-bonded bridges (Maryland bridges):
This type of bridge attaches a replacement tooth using small metal or ceramic wings bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. It is often used for front teeth with minimal pressure needs.
Are dental implants worth it in the long run?
Dental implants are considered a worthwhile long-term option for replacing missing teeth. They are designed to support everyday function, restore appearance, and may remain in place for up to 20 years with appropriate care.
While outcomes vary, implants are often valued for their durability and the sense of normalcy they offer in daily life. They also help preserve the surrounding bone and support oral stability over time.
