Any type of discomfort that you might feel after dental implant surgery is usually localized to the gums right around the initial installation site. Keep in mind that your injection site (from the local anesthesia) can be sore for a few days. Rinsing with warm salt water is a great way to reduce soreness and swelling. Fortunately, your soft tissues can heal quite quickly as long as you take care of your mouth properly. If you’re quite sore, an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen can alleviate discomfort as needed — you probably won’t need it more than a day or two after surgery.
Make sure not to use that part of your mouth to bite or chew until directed. It’s important to not irritate the installation site so that the area can heal as quickly as possible. We’ll likely place a special temporary “healing abutment” over the implant to minimize any irritation and address aesthetic needs.