Do Implants Hurt? Recovery & Aftercare

Implant placement is done under local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain during the procedure. Afterwards, most people have some soreness and swelling for a few days, which is usually managed with ordinary painkillers. Implant treatment is provided at our Stratford-upon-Avon practice, and you can start with a free chat with Dr Fuz.

Here is what to expect on the day, in the first week and over the following months.

What does implant placement feel like?

The area is numbed with local anaesthetic before treatment starts. You will feel vibration and pressure, and hear the instruments, but you should not feel sharp pain. If you feel anything uncomfortable, tell us and we can stop and give more anaesthetic. If you are nervous, tell us when you book so we can talk through ways to help.

How much does it hurt afterwards?

Once the anaesthetic wears off, it is normal to have:

• soreness or aching around the implant for a few days
• some swelling, often at its worst on the second or third day
• mild bruising in some cases
• a little bleeding or pink saliva on the first day

Most people manage with painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, if these are safe for them. Follow the advice your dentist gives you for your own situation.

What should I do in the first week?

• Rest on the day and avoid hard exercise for a day or two.
• Use a cold pack on your face for short spells on the first day to help with swelling.
• Eat soft, cool or lukewarm food and chew on the other side.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol, which can slow healing.
• Keep the rest of your mouth clean. Brush gently near the implant, and follow any rinsing advice you are given.
• Go to any review appointment you are given.

When should I contact the practice?

Call us if you have pain that is getting worse rather than better after a few days, swelling that keeps increasing, a high temperature, bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure, or if the implant or temporary tooth feels loose. If we are closed and you are worried, call NHS 111. Call 999 or go to A&E if swelling affects your breathing or swallowing.

How do I look after an implant long term?

An implant cannot decay, but the gum and bone around it can become inflamed if plaque builds up. To protect it:

• brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• clean between your teeth every day, using interdental brushes or floss as advised
• keep up regular check-ups and hygiene visits
• tell your dentist if the gum around the implant bleeds, feels sore or looks swollen

Patients can’t book the hygienist directly: your dentist will refer you after a check-up. A hygiene appointment is £78.50.

Frequently asked questions

Is dental implant surgery painful?

The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure rather than pain. Afterwards, soreness and swelling for a few days are normal and are usually eased with ordinary painkillers.

How long does recovery take after an implant?

Most people are back to normal daily activities within a day or two. The implant then takes roughly three to six months to bond with the bone before the final crown is fitted.

What can I eat after a dental implant?

Stick to soft, cool or lukewarm food for the first few days and chew on the other side. Your dentist will tell you when you can return to your usual diet.

Do implants need special cleaning?

Clean around an implant as carefully as a natural tooth, brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth every day, and keep up regular check-ups and hygiene visits.

What should I read next?

• Dental implants in Kenilworth and Stratford: cost and process
• Missing tooth: implant, bridge or denture?

How do I book in Kenilworth or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Find out more about dental implants at Pennington Dental. Your first appointment is a free consultation: book a free consultation.

Call Kenilworth on 01926 863 236 or Stratford-upon-Avon on 01789 205 254, or book an appointment online. Find directions for our Kenilworth practice and our Stratford-upon-Avon practice.

New to us? See our new patient information and the full list of fees on our treatment costs page. To spread the cost of check-ups and hygiene visits, see the Pennington plan.

Further reading: Oral Health Foundation: dental implants.

Prices correct at time of publishing (9 November 2026).

Reviewed by Dr Fuz, BDS, BSc, MSc (Restorative Dentistry), GDC 76311. Last reviewed 9 November 2026.

This article is general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own dentist or doctor.