After a Dental Implant: Monitoring is Protecting
The placement of a dental implant is a reliable procedure, but like any surgery, it requires a monitoring period. Certain signs may indicate delayed healing or a complication. Here are those you should identify quickly, and when to contact your dental surgeon.
Persistent Severe Pain
It is normal to experience moderate discomfort or pain during the first 2 to 3 days after the procedure.
However, be aware if:
The pain increases instead of subsiding
It becomes throbbing, sharp, keeping you awake
It is not relieved by prescribed painkillers
👉 In this case, consult your practitioner immediately. It could indicate the onset of an infection or a healing issue.
Abnormal or Persistent Swelling
A slight swelling is normal, especially between the 2nd and 3rd day.
What should alert you:
Significant swelling beyond 5 days
A marked facial asymmetry
The appearance of heat, redness, or pus in the area
👉 These signs may indicate a local infection or a hematoma requiring monitoring.
Heavy Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding may occur in the first few hours after surgery.
But if it is:
Heavy
Continuous beyond 24 hours
Not stopped despite compression with a sterile compress
👉 You must consult promptly. It could be a damaged vessel or a failure of clot formation.
Fever or Significant Fatigue
A slight feverish state is sometimes related to anesthesia or post-operative stress. However, a fever above 38°C, accompanied by chills or severe fatigue, can be an infectious sign.
Implant Mobility
An implant should not move. If it feels mobile or you sense looseness when chewing:
👉 It is imperative to consult immediately. This could signal an osseointegration failure.
When to call your dental surgeon?
📞 Call immediately if you observe:
Unrelieved significant pain
Pus, fever, or unpleasant odor in the mouth
Implant mobility
Uncontrolled bleeding
Prompt follow-up helps avoid complications and preserve the success of your treatment.
In summary
Be attentive to signs of complication after an implant. It is better to consult unnecessarily than too late.
Communication with your practitioner is essential: do not wait to report any unusual changes. Dr Laurent SERS, implantologist in Cannes, remains available to you throughout your treatment journey.
