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A dentist in gloves examines a smiling patient's teeth during a consultation, discussing potential side effects of dental implants at ClearChoice.
01.22.2025

What to Know About Side Effects with Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants may cause side effects like swelling. Prepare for recovery with ClearChoice’s expert insights.

A dentist in gloves examines a smiling patient's teeth during a consultation, discussing potential side effects of dental implants at ClearChoice.

Dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing severely damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. They fuse to your jawbone, mimicking the look and feel of natural teeth while also being unable to decay.  
 
Since implants are a surgical procedure, post-operative side effects can occur. They are generally mild to moderate and have no cause for concern, fading after several days as the body heals. In rare cases, side effects can worsen, indicating complications that require immediate professional attention. This article explores common dental implant side effects and discusses how to know when they are a cause for concern.  
  
If you experience abnormal side effects after dental implant surgery, such as side effects that persist or become severe,​​ contact a ClearChoice Dental Implant Center immediately so we can help resolve the issue. 

Side Effects After Getting Dental Implants  

Dental implant patients often experience some side effects after the procedure. Most of these are entirely normal and indicate that the body is healing. Here are a few of the most common symptoms and how to tell if they’re normal or an emergency:

Swelling  

Swelling is a common post-implant symptom caused by inflammation fluid buildup within oral tissue. Some swelling occurs naturally during healing. You can manage it by applying ice packs or cold compresses. Anti-inflammatory medication can also help, so check if your dentist recommends any. Eventually, the swelling fades as your body heals the area. That said, excessive or prolonged swelling may be a sign of complications. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience more severe or long-lasting swelling. 

Minor Bleeding  

Dental implants may cause minor bleeding after the procedure while the surgical wound heals. Most minor bleeding tends to occur within the first 48 hours after the procedure but will end as the body seals the wound. You can control bleeding by placing a gauze pad on the site and biting down. Avoiding strenuous activity, spitting, and straw-drinking are crucial. These activities can cause bleeding and potentially dislodge the blood clot, leading to a painful dry socket. Contact your dentist if bleeding persists or is profuse.

Bruising 

The pressure your gums and mouth experience during the procedure may cause bruising. It will most likely appear in areas next to the site, but it may also occur in other parts of the face and chin.  
  
​​Bruising and some discoloration are generally harmless and fade within a few days, like a bruise anywhere else on the body. A cold compress can help manage bruising within the first 48 hours, whereas you may want to try warm compresses to bring circulation to the area. However, prolonged or worsening may be cause for concern. Contact your dentist if you experience these. 

Pain and Discomfort  

Any dental procedure, including implants, will likely cause some pain during post-operative recovery. Post-operative dental implant pain often ranges from mild to moderate, but fortunately, you can manage it with over-the-counter pain medication. Your dentist may prescribe medication depending on your circumstances.  
  
Lifestyle choices can also help keep pain levels low. Stick to soft and liquid foods, avoid chewing at the surgical site, and maintain good but gentle oral health habits. As with many post-operative symptoms, persistent or worsening pain could indicate complications. Visit your dentist immediately if this occurs.

How Long Should Dental Implant Side Effects Last?    

Dental implant side effects typically last a few days to a week post-procedure. They tend to peak after the first couple of days, then decline until they subside completely. That said, the exact duration depends on the complexity of the surgery and how fast your body heals.  
  
Following your ClearChoice provider’s post-treatment care instructions, such as taking medication and following proper oral health habits, is key for minimizing and resolving your side effects as quickly as possible. Also, side effects that persist or worsen may warrant an emergency dental visit to determine if there is an underlying issue. 

Dental Implant Complications   

Dental implants are a safe and reliable procedure for replacing damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. However, any surgical procedure carries some risk of complications. ​Contact ClearChoice immediately if you notice any of the following issues post-procedure:¹

  • Implant failure: Implants can fail if they don’t integrate properly into the jawbone. This can result in a loose implant or persistent pain at the implant site.

  • Infection: Peri-implantitis, or infection at the implant site, can occur if bacteria enter the site and lead to swelling, redness, and pus drainage. Address this immediately to stop the infection from spreading and creating more serious issues.

  • Sinus issues: Upper jaw implants may impact the sinuses if installed too close to your sinus cavity. Problems with sinus pressure, congestion, or discharge may indicate such an issue and warrant a dental visit.

  • Nerve or tissue damage: An implant can damage surrounding nerves or tissue if placed improperly. Numbness, tingling, or persistent pain in the mouth and adjacent areas (face, chin, lips) could indicate such damage. 


Schedule a Follow-Up Appointment After Getting Dental Implants     

Every patient will experience some side effects after dental implant surgery as the body heals. Proper post-operative recovery helps facilitate this healing and return to normal life without interruptions or complications.  
  
During and even after the recovery process, visiting your ClearChoice provider is crucial. Your dentist can monitor your implant’s healing, catch potential complications early, and offer personalized advice. Make sure to schedule regular follow-up visits as your doctor instructs to ensure long-term implant success. 

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Dental Implant Side Effects FAQs

How bad is the pain after getting dental implants?   

Dental implant post-operative pain typically is moderate at most and peaks within 48 hours after surgery.² It then declines daily and tends to subside by the end of the first week after surgery. Generally speaking, over-the-counter pain medication and cold compress can help manage the pain until it fades. Contact your dentist if you experience severe or persistent pain.

What does an infected dental implant look like?  

Infected implants tend to be excessively swollen, red, and tender around the implant site. Discharge or pus may also be present. Furthermore, bacteria can cause persistent bad breath or foul taste, so either of these could indicate infection.  

What is the most common complication of dental implants?  

Infection around the site, also called peri-implantitis, is the most common dental implant complication. It can occur if bacteria enter the site and begin growing. Good, gentle oral care, rest, a soft diet, and avoiding drinking through straws can reduce the risk of infection. 

Sources:

¹MedicalNewsToday - What problems can occur after dental implant surgery?  
 
²Aspen Dental – Do dental implants hurt? Everything you need to know 

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(888) 486-3443Copyright © 2024 ClearChoice Management Services, LLC

ClearChoice Dental Implant Centers are locally owned and operated by licensed dentists, and are part of a professional affiliation of implant practices operated by oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and restorative dentists across the U.S. A majority of patients (and approximately 90% of Minnesota patients) qualify for same day implants and can have their procedure in one day after initial workup, without additional bone graft surgery, and may leave the office that same day with provisional prostheses and the final prostheses to be placed later. Results may vary in individual cases. Some claims made are supported by network surveys. Both general dentists and specialists in some states. Dental implants are not a recognized specialty. Dental specialists are specialists in oral maxillofacial surgery and prosthodontics. Limited services available at satellite offices.

Dental implants can last a lifetime. Studies show that dental implants are likely to last at least 25 years with proper care and maintenance in most cases.

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