Surgical Instructions

After Placement of Dental Implants

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

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 to 48 hours. Excessive bleeding (your mouth fills up rapidly with blood) can be controlled by biting on a gauze pad or a tea bag placed directly on the bleeding wound for 1 hour. If bleeding continues please call for further instructions.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag or towel filled with ice on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice 20 to 30 minutes at a time for the first 48 to 72 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 once the sutures are removed or when otherwise directed.

Pain

You should begin taking pain medication once you remove the gauze pad (1 hour after the surgery). For moderate pain, Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) bought over the counter comes in 200 mg tablets: 2-3 tablets may be taken every 6 hours as needed for pain. Acetaminophen (Extra Strength Tylenol) 1-2 tablets may be taken every 6 hours. For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed. Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it.

Antibiotics

If you have been placed on antibiotics, take the tablets or liquid as directed. Antibiotics will be given to help prevent infection. Discontinue antibiotic use in the event of a rash or other unfavorable reaction. Call the office if you have any questions.

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

Probiotics should be taken to help reduce gastrointestinal symptoms:

1- Activia or Stoneyfield Farms yogurt: 2 yogurts twice daily for 10-14 days

2- Lactinex (OTC): 3 capsules 3 times daily or 1 packet twice daily for 10-14 days.

Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing. Be sure to rinse for at least 30 seconds then spit it out gently. Warm salt water rinses (teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) 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.

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. Avoid exercice the first 48 hours after surgery. If you are considering exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising. Keep in mind that you are probably not taking normal nourishment. This may weaken you and further limit your ability to exercise.

Wearing your Prosthesis

Partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures should not be used immediately after surgery and for at least 10 days unless otherwise indicated. This will be discussed in the pre-operative consultation. If any questions arise, please call us.