After Placement of Dental Implants

Do not disturb the wound. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound on the day of surgery. There will be a metal healing abutment protruding through the gingival (gum) tissue.

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Bleeding can be controlled by biting on a gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 45 minutes. If bleeding continues please call for further instructions.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag, or a plastic bag, or towel filled with ice on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice continuously, as much as possible, for the first 36-48 hours.

Pain

For moderate pain, Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) 600mg may be taken every 6-8 hours as needed. As well 1-2 tablets of Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every 6 hours as needed.

 For severe pain, any prescribed medication should be taken as directed. The prescribed medicine may make you groggy and slow down your reflexes. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Pain or discomfort following surgery should subside more and more every day. If pain persists, it may require attention and you should call the office.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. You may eat anything soft and avoid the surgical area. Your food intake may be limited for the first few days. Please compensate by increasing your fluid intake. At least 8 glasses of liquid should be taken daily.

Antibiotics

Be sure to take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to help prevent infection.

Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential to optimal healing. Peridex rinses should be used beginining the night of the surgery. The day after surgery, you may also rinse with warm salt water rinses (teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) at least 4-5 times a day, especially after meals. Brushing your teeth and the healing abutments is no problem. Be gentle initially with brushing the surgical areas.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you are considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising.

Wearing your Prosthesis

Partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures should not be used immediately after surgery and for at least 7-10 days.