Post-Operative Instructions for Dental Implants

After dental implant surgery, it is important to carefully follow all post-operative instructions and take all medications as instructed. Be careful and avoid traumatizing or chewing directly on this area. There may also be sutures; take care not to disturb these. It is very important to take your antibiotics and use your prescription mouth rinse starting the day of surgery. If you have any questions or concerns following your dental implant surgery, please don’t hesitate to call our office. We are on call 24 hours a day.

Bleeding

Slight bleeding and redness in the saliva are common after dental implant placement. If there is excess bleeding, gently wipe any old clots from the mouth and then place clean new gauze over the area and bite firmly for 30–40 minutes. Repeat every 30–40 minutes with new gauze. If excessive bleeding continues, bite on a cold-water-moistened tea bag firmly for 30–40 minutes. Slowly remove the tea bag and leave the area alone. If there is continued excessive bleeding, call our office for further instructions. Also, avoid excessive talking and excessive chewing if there is continued bleeding.

Swelling

Swelling is normal after any surgical procedure, including the placement of dental implants. The extent of swelling varies and depends on the extent of the surgery and each individual patient. Swelling around the mouth, jaws, cheeks, and below the eyes is not uncommon. The swelling will usually reach its maximum 2–3 days after the placement of the dental implant(s). The swelling can be decreased by the immediate use of ice packs in the first 48 hours. Ice packs should be applied to the outside next to where the dental implant surgery was performed. Keep the ice on as continuously as possible. Also, sitting upright and not lying flat on the first day will help to decrease the amount of swelling.

Pain

Please refer to the pain medication sheet given to you by our office. The information will provide you with detailed instructions on how to manage post-operative pain and discomfort

Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is important because it helps reduce the chances of an infection. Very gentle rinsing should begin the day of dental implant surgery. If you were given a prescription for mouth rinse, follow the instructions on the prescription. If you were not given one, rinse gently with warm salt water twice daily. You can brush your teeth the day after your dental implant surgery, but be careful not to traumatize the area where the surgery was performed.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. avoid hot liquids or foods. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.

Smoking

Smoking can inhibit the healing process and can cause more pain after surgery. To ensure the best post-operative recovery, refrain from smoking for as long as possible after dental implant surgery.