After Dental Implant Surgery

Following dental implant surgery, patients must take detailed care of the area surrounding their new implant.  For the first month the dental implant is still integrating with the bone and tissues so the patient’s care routine will be slightly more involved during this initial period.  Above all, do not disturb the wound in the initial days that follow surgery.  Avoid rinsing, spitting, and touching the mouth for 24 hours after surgery to avoid contaminating or irritating the surgical site.  After dental implant surgery it’s important to follow these care instructions:

Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. If bleeding continues 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 the surgery. Apply the ice continuously, as much as possible, for the first 24 hours. Sometimes the swelling may get slightly worse on the third day after surgery.

Diet

Drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself well hydrated. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Gradually advance to a normal diet as tolerated unless otherwise directed 

Pain

You should begin to taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. For mild to moderate pain, consider using over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol, or Ibuprofen(Advil or Motrin). For severe pain, contact Clear Fork Dental. Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. 

Antibiotics

Be sure to take any prescribed antibiotics as directed and complete the ENTIRE regimen to help prevent infection. 

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following 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

Essix, partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures should be used as directed by Dr. Cole. and/or Dr. Shelby in your post-surgery instructions. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office.