- Take all prescribed medications, including antibiotics, as directed.
- Limit activity for a few days.
Oral Hygiene:
- Avoid brushing the surgical site for about 1 week if sutures were placed.
- Clean nearby teeth gently with a soft brush, floss, or cotton swab.
Healing Abutment:
- Do not chew on it.
- Do not push on it with your tongue or finger.
- If it becomes loose or falls out, call immediately.
Chewing:
- Do not chew on the implant site for at least 3 months.
Smoking:
- Smoking is the number one cause of implant failure.
- If an implant fails in a smoker, no refunds will be provided and additional charges will apply for future treatment.
Timeline:
- Typical healing is 3–4 months.
- 6 months if sinus grafting was performed.
FAQ
How long do dental implants take to heal?
Typical implant healing is 3 to 4 months, or about 6 months if sinus grafting was performed.
Can I chew on my dental implant while it heals?
Do not chew on the implant site for at least 3 months unless you are specifically told otherwise.
Why is smoking a problem after implant surgery?
Smoking is the number one cause of implant failure and can seriously interfere with healing.
What should I do if my healing abutment comes loose?
Do not chew on it or push on it. If it becomes loose or falls out, call immediately.
Can a dental implant fail?
Implants can fail, especially when healing is disrupted. Smoking is listed in these instructions as the number one cause of implant failure.
Last updated: August 2026
Reviewed by Dr. Jeff Muszynski