After Placement of Dental Implants
Post Surgical Instructions
Do not disturb the wound. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound on the day of surgery. There will often be a metal healing cap protruding through the gingival (gum) tissue. The position of the implants and the type of healing caps will generally be discussed at the consultation and noted after the procedure. In general post-operative instructions are similar to those for wisdom teeth extraction.
Bleeding
Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Bleeding can be controlled by applying pressure with the guaze pads supplied by us at the time of your procedure. If bleeding continues or is excessive please call for further instructions.
Swelling
Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply the supplied ice pack as instructed on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice continuously for the first 24-36 hours. Application beyond the first 24-36 hors will be of little benefit.
Diet
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. Soft cool food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed generally avoiding the implant site.
Pain
Unfortunately pain is a normal part of the post surgical recovery. We will do everything we can to help minimize your discomfort but it should be expected. You will be given pain medications as well as instructions for taking them. You will have the best result by staying on the prescribed regimen.
Antibiotics
Be sure to take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to help prevent infection.
Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing. Warm saltwater rinses (teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) should be used at least 4-5 times a day. Brushing your teeth and the healing abutments is no problem. Be gentle initially with brushing the surgical areas.
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
Partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures will usually be modified so that you may still use them. Sometimes it is not possible to use them and alternatives will be discussed. This is usually decided in the pre-operative consultation.
If you have a true emergency and cannot find the answer to your question here you can reach the doctor on call through the answering service at 214-823-5444. Be prepared to state the name of your doctor, the office you were treated in and have the number of a pharmacy available.