Dental Implants
Aftercare instructions following dental implant surgery
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. 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 normal diet as soon as possible unless directed otherwise.
Pain
You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. For moderate pain, one or two tablets of Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every 3-4 hours. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) may be taken instead of Tylenol. Ibuprofen bought over the counter comes in 200mg tablets. 2-3 tablets may be taken four times daily, not to exceed 3200mg daily for an adult. Consult our practice for individuals under 18. Stagger/alternate the two medications every 4 hours. For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as
directed. Narcotic pain medications such as hydrocodone are usually coupled with acetaminophen (Tylenol). Thus, these medications can be taken in place of the Tylenol between ibuprofen usage. Do not take any of the above medications if you are allergic to them or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. Do not drive or operate 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 contact our office.
Antibiotics
If prescribed, be sure to take the antibiotic as directed to prevent infection.
Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean after surgery is essential. Use one-quarter teaspoon salt dissolved in an 8 oz glass of warm water and gently rinse with portions of the solution, taking five minutes to use entire glassful. Repeat as often as you’d like, but at least 2-3 times a day.
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
Recommendation of its use after surgery can be discussed with Dr. Burkhalter