Implant Denture Post Operative Instructions
BLEEDING:
Some bleeding is to be expected for the first 3-4 hours after the implant procedure. Some oozing until 24 hours post-surgery may also occur. To stop bleeding place damp gauze in the mouth and gently bite for 30 minutes. Keep head elevated. Pinkish saliva may be present for the first 2-3 days following surgery.
ORAL HYGIENE:
Oral hygiene is critical for the success and functionality of the implants and restoration.
Rinse with warm saltwater. Do not create suction, rather tip your head side to side and let saltwater dribble out (no spitting). For saltwater mix 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz. of water. Clean your mouth thoroughly after each meal beginning the day after surgery. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and toothpaste after meals and at bedtime. DO NOT begin use of Waterpik until directed by a doctor at the post-op visit. Use of dental Waterpik is highly recommended to irrigate underneath the denture to flush out debris. (Use of over-the-counter mouthwash is not encouraged.)
SWELLING:
Swelling is normal with this procedure. Gently apply ice packs (frozen veggies also works) to the area for periods of 20 minutes on, 5 minutes off. Continue to ice for the first 24 hours. The swelling may not become apparent until 24 hours after surgery. Swelling usually peaks on days 3-4 after surgery. After 48 hours, begin use of a warm, moist compress to the cheek.
MEDICATION:
If you do not have an allergy to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications ( Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil) we recommend taking these prior to the local anesthetic wearing off. In the event of severe pain, we will prescribe narcotic pain medication. You may or may not be prescribed an antibacterial mouth rinse (this will be at the doctors’ discretion.) Please follow the instructions given by your pharmacist.
DIET: Patients are restricted to a SOFT CHEW diet for the first 6 weeks
While numb, avoid hot liquids or foods. A liquid to soft diet is recommended for the first few days, as your food intake will be limited. We recommend high protein shakes/smoothies (Ensure, Special K, etc.) as meal replacements. Increase diet as tolerated.
After 6 weeks, you can incorporate regular foods back into your diet, however, avoid very hard and/or crunchy food such as nuts, chips, seeds, steak, hard and/or sticky candy, apples, hard bread like baguettes. These types of food can break and/or damage your temporary denture, as the temporary prosthesis is not as strong as your final prosthesis will be.
ACTIVITY:
No physical activity for the first 3 to 4 days after surgery. After 4 days you may resume activity as tolerated.
ALLERGIC REACTION:
For generalized rash, itching, etc. call your dentist immediately. If you develop difficulty in swallowing, trouble breathing, etc., contact your local hospital emergency room.
