Instructions Following Implant Surgery/Implant Treatment
- It is normal to experience some pain, bleeding, swelling, and discharge following oral surgery. Avoid pulling on your lip to look at the surgical site, and refrain from touching the area with your tongue or fingers. If you notice excessive bleeding or discomfort 48 to 72 hours after surgery, contact our office immediately.
- Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen as needed, following the dosage instructions on the packaging or those provided by our office.
- Swelling around the face, eyes, and surgical area is common and may increase in the first two to three days after surgery. Applying a cold compress near the surgical site can help reduce swelling. If using ice packs, always place a cloth between the ice and your skin to avoid direct contact. You can use a cold compress for up to 20 minutes at a time, with 20-minute breaks in between. After the first 24 hours, cold compresses will no longer be effective for swelling. At this point, applying moist heat to the sides of the face may help to further reduce swelling.
- Rinsing with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in an eight-ounce glass of water) three times daily can be beneficial.
- Avoid brushing near the surgical area, but continue brushing and flossing the rest of your mouth as directed by our office.
- For the first 24 hours after surgery, do not use a straw, brush the surgical site, rinse your mouth, spit, or smoke.
- You may experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures within the first 24 hours. Refrain from consuming hot or spicy foods, as well as carbonated or alcoholic drinks.
- Limit your activities on the day of your surgery. Avoid heavy work or exercise, and resume normal activities the following day if you feel comfortable.
- After the first day, gently rinse your mouth with a warm salt water solution (half a teaspoon of salt in an eight-ounce glass of water) three times a day.
- In the days following surgery, stick to a diet of liquids and soft foods, such as soups, yogurt, juice, and smoothies.
- Follow all additional instructions provided during your visit. Take all prescribed medications, including antibiotics, to prevent infection.
- If you wear a denture that overlaps the surgical site, minimize its use after surgery to promote healing. Gradually increase the amount of time you wear your denture after the first week.
- Attending your follow-up appointments is crucial for us to monitor your healing progress.
- If pain or swelling worsens after a few days, please contact our office immediately.