DENTAL IMPLANTS POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

Immediately following the procedure, you will be given a gauze pack. If there is any bleeding, please bite firmly on the gauze for a minimum of 20 minutes.

Minimal to moderate discomfort can be anticipated for the first few days and can be controlled by taking the prescription medication. The antibiotic should be taken until they are completely finished. We recommend ibuprofen 400 mg every 4 hours for 2 days, then as needed for pain control.

Some swelling is not unusual. It can peak between 1-3 days. Apply ice to the outside of the face; “10 minutes on, 10 minutes off” for the first 24 hours. If there is extensive swelling that makes swallowing or breathing difficult or swelling that seems to be spreading down you neck, please contact the dental office immediately.

Do not be alarmed if you notice blood stains in the saliva. If there is considerable bleeding, first cleanse our mouth and remove any blood clots, then apply a gauze pad or a moist tea bag to the area for 30 to 60 minutes with firm constant pressure. It will be helpful to keep your head elevated with 2 or 3 pillows and also avoid excessive exercise.

If you have a denture that seats on the implant area, you will be wearing it after the surgery to act as a compression bandage. Leave the denture in for the first night only; unless it bothers you then remove it.

Do not vigorously rinse or consume very hot liquids for the first 24 hours. Alcohol may cause bleeding and should be minimized or preferably avoided for the first few weeks. Smoking may also affect the healing process and should also be avoided or reduced as much as possible during the first few weeks. Rinse 3-4 times daily with the provided Chlorhexidine Gluconate Oral Rinse. Continue the rinses for 2 weeks. Salt-water rinses can be used in addition.

During the first week brush your teeth as usual, but avoid the surgical area.

Continue to cleanse your teeth as usual and gently cleanse the surgical area. Avoid chewing directly on the surgical area for the first few weeks. For denture wearers, avoid firm chewing on the surgical area for the first few weeks.