Wound Healing

Understanding wound healing helps patients know what to expect after implant surgery and why certain post-operative instructions matter.

Phases of healing

1. Haemostasis (0–24 hours): Blood clot forms at the surgical site, stopping bleeding and creating the initial scaffold for healing.
2. Inflammation (1–5 days): Swelling, redness and mild warmth are normal — this is the immune system cleaning the site and beginning repair. Discomfort is typically greatest in the first 48–72 hours.
3. Proliferation (days 4–21): New blood vessels form, collagen is laid down, and the wound begins to close. Sutures hold the edges together during this phase.
4. Remodelling (weeks 3–12+): Collagen matures and strengthens; the gum tissue refines. Bone integration continues during and beyond this phase.

What promotes healing

• Good nutrition — adequate protein, vitamin C, and zinc
• Not smoking
• Controlled blood sugar (in diabetic patients)
• Following post-operative instructions precisely
• Adequate rest in the first 48 hours

What impairs healing

• Smoking — most significant impairment
• Alcohol — increases bleeding risk and impairs immune response
• Disturbing the wound (touching, rinsing vigorously, eating hard food)
• Uncontrolled systemic conditions (diabetes, immunosuppression)