After Placement of Dental Implants
Post-Operative Instructions
The following will cover important information regarding proper post-surgical care for dental implants. It is imperative that you follow these instructions carefully to maximize your healing and improve the long-term outcome of your dental implant(s).
- Do NOT disturb the wound. Avoid touching the wound or spitting for a few days after surgery. There may be a metal cap slightly protruding through the gum tissue.
- Some bleeding or redness is normal for 24 hours. You can control excessive bleeding (where your mouth fills up rapidly with blood) by biting on a gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, please call the office for further instructions.
- Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice for 10-15 minutes at a time, as much as possible, for the first 36 hours.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or foods. Soft foods and liquids can be consumed on the day of surgery. You may return to a normal diet 1–2 days after surgery unless otherwise directed.
- Warm saltwater rinses can be made by mixing a 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and should be used 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.
- Keep physical activities to a minimum for several days following surgery. Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, or straining.