After Placement of Dental Implants

Home Instructions After Dental Implant Surgery

After dental implant surgery, do not disturb the wound. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound on the day of surgery.  In some cases, you may be able to see a portion of the implant protruding through the gums.  

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Excessive bleeding (your mouth fills rapidly with blood) can be controlled by biting on a gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues profusely, 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. Ice is generally most helpful during the first 24 hours.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids. 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

Depending on the extent of your surgery, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and/or tylenol.  In some cases a prescription strength medication may be given.  This will be discussed in greater detail on the day of your procedure.  

Antibiotics

Antibiotics have been shown to increase success rates for implants and will be part of your surgical plan.  If you were given antibiotics to take before surgery, please take them as prescribed one hour prior to the procedure. 

Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing. An oral rinse may be prescribed for certain implant procedures.  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 and complete dentures can generally be worn immediately after implant surgery.