After Placement of Dental Implants

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

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Excessive bleeding can be controlled with firm pressure to the area (e.g., biting on tightly folded gauze placed directly on the bleeding wound for an hour or more as needed).  Please call for further instructions as needed.

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 hours.

Diet

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

Pain

You should begin taking over the counter pain medication as soon as you get home.

For moderate pain,  Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) may be purchased over the counter in 200 mg tablets: 2 tablets may be taken every 3-4 hours, not to exceed 3200mg daily for an adult. One or two tablets of Tylenol (325 mg) or Extra Strength Tylenol (500 mg) may also be taken every 3-4 hours, not to exceed 4000mg daily for an adult. Consult our practice for individuals under 18. 

For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed. Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic to them, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. 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.

Antibiotics

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

Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing. The day after surgery begin warm salt water rinses (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) at least 4-5 times a day for at least 30 seconds and especially after meals. Brush your teeth and the healing abutments. Be gentle initially while brushing the surgical areas.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising. Keep in mind that you are probably not taking in normal nourishment. This may weaken you and further limit your ability to exercise.

Wearing your Prosthesis

Partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures, should be worn as directed and a visit to your restorative doctor will possibly be needed following the procedure for adjustments.