Pain after dental implant – how long does it last and what can you do?

A dental implant is one of the most effective solutions for replacing missing teeth, providing stability, aesthetics, and functionality. However, since it is a surgical procedure, some pain after dental implant placement is natural. Many patients ask: is it normal? How long does it last? What can I do to reduce the discomfort?

In this article, we explain in detail everything you need to know about pain after dental implants – from its duration to possible causes and effective relief methods.

Is it normal to feel pain after a dental implant?

Yes, it is absolutely normal to experience discomfort or pain after a dental implant. The procedure involves inserting a titanium screw into the jawbone, which triggers a local inflammatory reaction. This manifests as swelling, redness, and temporary pain—all natural responses of the body.
Normal pain after a dental implant may include:

• Mild to moderate pain in the implant area
• A feeling of pressure or pulsing in the first few days
• Mild gum inflammation
• Discomfort when cleaning or touching the area

These symptoms are common during the first 3–7 days after the implant and should not alarm you if they respond to painkillers and gradually decrease.

How long does pain last after a dental implant?

Pain after a dental implant is temporary. Generally:

• During the first 24–48 hours, pain is more intense
• From day 3, it begins to gradually decrease
• By day 7, discomfort is minimal or absent
• After 10–14 days, any pain should disappear

If the pain persists longer or worsens, it may be a sign of a complication.

When is pain after a dental implant a warning sign?

Pain that does not subside or worsens after a few days should be investigated by the implantologist. Signs of abnormal pain after a dental implant include:

• Pulsating or sharp pain, difficult to control with painkillers
• Excessive swelling, pus, or discharge
• Fever, chills, or a general feeling of illness
• Pain radiating to the ear or eye

1. Follow the medication schedule strictly as recommended by your doctor
Immediately after the procedure, you may be prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or diclofenac. These help not only to relieve pain but also to reduce inflammation. For milder pain, paracetamol may be sufficient. In some cases, the doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infections – it is essential to follow the treatment exactly as instructed.

2. Apply cold compresses during the first 48 hours
A simple but very effective method to reduce inflammation and local pain is to apply cold compresses or ice packs wrapped in a towel directly to the cheek in the affected area. Apply for 10–15 minutes, with breaks between applications. Caution: never apply ice directly to the skin.

3. Choose a soft diet that is gentle on the gums
In the first few days, avoid crunchy, hard, sticky, or very hot foods. Opt for warm soups, purees, yogurts, soft-boiled eggs, or smoothies. Also, hydration is extremely important – drink plenty of fluids but avoid carbonated or very cold drinks.

4. Give yourself time to rest and avoid intense physical effort
Your body needs energy to recover. Avoid strenuous physical exercise, especially during the first 2–3 days. Rest is essential, and when you sleep, try to keep your head slightly elevated – for example, using an extra pillow – to reduce pressure and inflammation.

5. Maintain careful but gentle oral hygiene
It is important to clean your mouth even after the implant, but with care. In the first days, avoid touching the implant area with your toothbrush. You can use an alcohol-free antiseptic mouthwash if recommended by your doctor. Gentle rinsing, not aggressive, helps prevent infections without irritating the sensitive area.

6. Avoid smoking and alcohol
Although it may be difficult, it is essential to refrain from smoking and alcohol consumption during the recovery period. Both slow down healing, affect blood circulation to the gums, and significantly increase the risk of complications, including implant rejection.

When is the pain NOT normal and you should see a doctor?

It is normal to feel mild to moderate pain during the first 2–3 days after a dental implant, especially while chewing or touching the area. However, there are situations where pain may indicate a more serious problem and requires medical intervention.
1. Pain intensifies after 3 days instead of decreasing
Normally, discomfort should gradually lessen. If you notice the pain becoming stronger or suddenly reappearing after a period of calm, this may be a sign of infection or an adverse reaction to the implant.

2. The area is excessively swollen or there is discharge
Mild inflammation is natural, but if the cheek or gums become very swollen, red, and painful, or if you notice pus discharge or a persistent unpleasant odor, it may be a postoperative infection.

3. You have fever or feel weak without another explanation
Fever, chills, or a general feeling of weakness occurring a few days after the procedure can be signs of an infection spreading through the body. In this case, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.

4. Bleeding does not stop or keeps recurring
Mild bleeding is normal in the first hours after the procedure. However, if bleeding persists for several days, is heavy, or repeatedly reoccurs, you need to visit for a check-up.

5. You have difficulty opening your mouth, swallowing, or breathing
These are alarming signs that may indicate a serious complication, such as a deep infection or severe reaction to the treatment. Do not wait – go immediately to the doctor or the nearest emergency service.

Pain after a dental implant can be effectively managed with the help of your doctor’s recommendations and some simple home measures. However, it is important to pay attention to signs that may indicate a complication. Listen to your body and do not hesitate to seek medical help when you feel something is wrong. Prompt intervention can make the difference between easy healing and a more serious problem.