After Dental Implant Surgery

HOME INSTRUCTIONS AFTER RECEIVING DENTAL IMPLANTS

It is essential for the early healing process that the following directions are observed during the first two weeks after the operation:

IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING SURGERY

You will be wheelchaired out to your driver. Our office will instruct your driver to pick up your mediations from your pharmacy. Typically, we prescribe an antibiotic, medicated oral rinse, and a pain medication

If possible, an elevated head rest (an extra pillow) should be used during the first two days/nights after the procedure, to reduce swelling of the operated area.

Have something very easy to eat immediately when you get home. (examples: pudding, mashed potatoes, soup, jello) As soon as you have some food in your stomach, take the pain medicine you were prescribed. This way when the numbness wears off, you will have pain medicine in your system.

DIET

Only semi-liquid food may be consumed during the first 2 days in order to avoid inadvertent food particles contaminating the wound. A soft chewing diet is recommended for 10-14 days after that.

After each meal the mouth should be thoroughly rinsed with a saltwater solution.

Drink plenty of fluids.

PAIN

Ice may be used during the first 48-72 hours to relieve swelling and discomfort. A thin barrier should be used between the ice pack and skin, 30 minutes on, 30 minutes off to avoid frost bite.

Pain or discomfort following surgery should subside more and more every day.

Notify the doctor if you have any increase in pain, swelling or bleeding.

ANTIBIOTICS

Take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to help prevent infection.

ORAL HYGIENE

Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing.

Smoking should be avoided during the first two weeks after surgery, especially the first two days.

Specific mouth rinses or other disinfectants should not be used, unless prescribed by your doctor. Typically, our doctor will prescribe Peridex Oral Rinse: use as instructed.

BLEEDING

Should oozing bleeding occur in the operated jaw, it may usually be stopped by softly biting for 15 minutes on a rolled gauze dressing soaked in saline. If the bleeding does not stop by doing so, your oral surgeon should be contacted.

WEARING YOUR DENTURE OR PARTIALS

Old dentures may not be worn until refitting adjustments (relining) have been made, Insertion of dentures too early may jeopardize a successful healing process.

PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS.