Dental implant recovery — what Plymouth patients should expect
Implant surgery is more comfortable than most people expect. Most Plymouth patients return to desk work the next day. The recovery curve below is what's typical after a single-tooth implant under local anaesthetic.
The first 72 hours
Peak swelling is day 2–3, not day 1 — mildly counterintuitive. Soft, cool foods only; no straws (suction disturbs the clot). No smoking. No alcohol. Ice pack for the first few hours. Painkillers taken before the anaesthetic wears off. If your Plymouth clinic hasn't briefed you on this before surgery, ask.
Week 2 and beyond
Most swelling and soreness has gone by day 7–10. Stitches are often dissolvable. You can usually resume normal diet from week 2, avoiding the surgical site for chewing. Then comes the long wait — 3–6 months of osseointegration while the bone fuses to the implant. Most of this period is uneventful. Your Plymouth dentist will see you for healing checks at day 7, month 1, and month 3.
When to call your clinic
Call your Plymouth practice if: pain exceeds prescribed painkillers; bleeding won't stop after pressure; swelling worsens after day 3; fever above 38°C; persistent bad taste from the site; the implant ever feels loose. Most post-surgical issues are minor and resolve; these signs warrant a check-in.
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General information for Plymouth residents. Not clinical advice. Decisions about treatment should be made with a qualified clinician after a clinical assessment.