Just Got Dental Implants This Summer? Here's How to Take Care of Them

Summer is a great time to take care of your oral health – many patients choose to get dental implants during the warmer months, often combining the procedure with a relaxing vacation. If you're planning to get implants or have just had them placed this summer, it's important to follow a few essential steps to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

Below is a practical summer guide to post-operative care after getting dental implants:

1. Stay Cool and Avoid Excessive Heat
   The first few days after getting dental implants are crucial for proper healing. It's best to avoid direct sun exposure and spending long periods in high temperatures. Summer heat can worsen swelling and increase discomfort around the treated area. For this reason, it’s recommended to stay in cool, well-ventilated areas or use air conditioning, especially during the first 48 hours after the procedure.
   Also, try to avoid going out during the hottest parts of the day – typically between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM – when the sun's rays are strongest and your body is more sensitive to heat. If you must go out, wear a hat, sunglasses, and stay in the shade as much as possible. Temperature control is essential to reduce inflammation and support a healthy, complication-free recovery.
2. Drink Plenty of Water and Eat Soft, Cold Foods
   After getting dental implants – especially in the summer – it’s important to stay hydrated and follow a diet that won’t irritate the treated area. High temperatures can increase sweating and fluid loss, so drink plenty of water throughout the day to support your body’s healing process.
   As for food, during the first 5 to 7 days post-surgery, it's best to stick to soft foods at room temperature or cooler. Good options include fruit smoothies, yogurt, pudding, mashed potatoes, lukewarm or cold soup, steamed and mashed vegetables, and soft grated fruits. These foods are gentle, require minimal chewing, and won't disturb the surgical site.
   Avoid hot, hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, as they may cause irritation, bleeding, or slow down healing. These should be avoided during at least the first week or until your dentist advises otherwise.
3. Avoid Swimming (At Least for a Few Days)
   After your implant procedure, it’s natural to want to enjoy the sea or pool during hot summer days. However, it's very important to avoid swimming for at least 5–7 days after the surgery to protect the treated area and prevent potential complications.
   Saltwater, pool water, and even spa water can contain bacteria and microbes that, if they come in contact with an open wound, may increase the risk of infection. This is especially critical if your surgery was more complex or included stitches that need time to heal properly.
   In addition to infection risks, intense swimming movements or exposure to cold water can affect blood circulation around the implant area and delay healing. If you're planning a holiday near the water, it’s best to focus on post-op care first, and enjoy swimming only after getting your dentist’s approval.
4. Keep Your Mouth Clean – Gently
   Maintaining oral hygiene after getting implants is vital for a successful recovery and for avoiding complications like infections or gum inflammation. However, the care must be gentle, especially around the surgical site.
   Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding direct pressure on the treated area. Electric toothbrushes should be avoided for a few days, as their vibrations may interfere with healing.
   Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water (e.g., 1 glass of water + ½ teaspoon of sea salt), which helps reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial buildup. If your dentist has prescribed an antibacterial mouthwash, use it as instructed.
   Avoid using dental floss or gum scrapers near the implant area for at least one week. Also, do not rinse too forcefully, as pressure could cause bleeding or interfere with tissue formation around the implant.
5. Don’t Forget Sun Protection – Even for Your Lips
   After surgery, your lips and the area around your mouth may be more sensitive to sunlight, especially during summer. To avoid irritation or dryness, use a lip balm with SPF protection and avoid direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours (12:00 PM–4:00 PM). A wide-brimmed hat can also help. Sun care supports a smoother and more comfortable recovery.
6. Always Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions and Stay in Touch with the Clinic
   Every patient is different, and your treatment has been tailored to your individual needs. Carefully follow all the instructions given by your dentist – from oral hygiene to food and physical activity. Stay in contact with the clinic even after returning home. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or reach out if you have any concerns. Proper care today ensures years of a strong, functional, and complication-free smile.

True Care Continues Beyond the Treatment

Successful treatment doesn’t end when the patient leaves the clinic — post-treatment support is just as important. Dedicated and professional clinics make sure every patient feels informed and supported after their procedure.

At Albania Medical Tour, we believe that care knows no borders. We stay in touch with our patients, especially those coming from abroad, providing clear instructions, prompt assistance, and personalized responses at every stage of recovery. Thanks to our multilingual team and extensive experience with international patients, especially from Italy, you can feel confident that you’ll never be left without support.

Enjoy Your Summer Without Compromise – With a Brand New Smile

Dental implants are a valuable investment in your health and self-confidence – and summer is the perfect time to begin this journey. With the right care and by following a few simple tips, you can heal peacefully and enjoy your vacation without worries.

If you’ve chosen to get your implants with Albania Medical Tour, know that you are never alone in this process. We are by your side every step of the way – from the day of the procedure to full recovery – offering personalized guidance, fast responses, and continuous support, even after you return home.

Because for us, patient care doesn’t end when the treatment ends – it’s only just beginning.