Dental Implant Post Operative Instructions
BLEEDING:
Small amounts of blood in the saliva can make your saliva appear quite red. This is normal and maybe noticed the rest of the day after the procedure. No strenuous activity for 1 day.
PAIN:
Some discomfort is normal after surgery. Before the anesthetic wears off, take Ibuprofen every 6 hours or as needed. Do not drink alcohol while taking prescription pain medications.
SWELLING:
Applying an ice pack to the face over the surgical area will minimize swelling. Apply for 10 minutes on, few minutes off. Continue this for the first day.
DO NOT SMOKE AS THIS MAY CAUSE THE IMPLANT TO FAIL.
RINSING:
Avoid rinsing the first day. After Day 1, you may begin gently rinsing with warm salt water; use 1 teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water and use it as a rinse to promote healing. Do not brush over the surgical site.
DIET:
Eat soft foods for the first 2 days. Maintain a good, balanced diet but prevent chewing over the surgical site. Return to normal regular meals as soon as you are able after the first 2 days. Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol for 1 week.
SINUS:
If your sinus was involved in the procedure, you should avoid blowing your nose for one week. DO NOT BLOW YOUR NOSE.
REMOVABLE APPLIANCES, DENTURES:
Your dentist will give you specific instructions about your prosthesis. To avoid putting any pressure on the new implants before they have healed, your denture might be adjusted or significantly modified. In certain cases, you will need to go without your dentures for a period (days or weeks) after the implants are placed. Sometimes a temporary removable appliance is made for cosmetic purposes until a new non-removable one can be made.
FOLLOW UP APPOINTMENTS:
You will need to return to the office in 4 weeks to check on your healing and possibly remove any sutures that were not dissolvable. In most cases, you will have dissolvable sutures that will fall out on their own in 4-7 days.
