After Placement of Dental Implants: Post-Operative Instructions
Dental implant surgery is a precise procedure, and proper post-operative care is essential to ensure successful healing and long-term stability of your implant. Please read the following instructions carefully and follow them closely.
Protecting the Surgical Area
Do not disturb the surgical site on the day of surgery. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the area with your fingers or tongue. You may notice a small metal healing abutment protruding through the gum tissue—this is normal and should not be manipulated.
Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding or blood-tinged saliva is normal for the first 24 hours. If excessive bleeding occurs—meaning your mouth fills rapidly with blood—place a gauze pad directly over the area and bite firmly for 30 minutes. Repeat if necessary. If bleeding does not subside, please contact our office for further instructions.
Swelling
Swelling is a normal response to surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack or a towel filled with ice to the outside of your face over the surgical area. Ice should be used as much as possible during the first 48 hours following surgery.
Diet
Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid hot foods or beverages on the day of surgery. Stick to soft foods and liquids initially, and advance your diet as tolerated. You may return to a normal diet as soon as you feel comfortable, unless otherwise instructed.
Pain Management
Begin taking pain medication as the local anesthetic wears off. For mild to moderate discomfort, acetaminophen (Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol) may be taken every 3–4 hours as directed. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) may be used instead, following recommended dosing guidelines.
If more severe pain occurs, take the prescribed medication as directed. Do not take any medication if you are allergic or have been advised by your physician to avoid it.
Antibiotics
If antibiotics were prescribed, take them exactly as directed until the entire course is completed. This is important for preventing infection and promoting proper healing.
Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical for implant success. On the night of surgery, gently rinse with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water). Do not use commercial mouth rinses such as Listerine or Scope.
Beginning the day after surgery, continue warm salt water rinses 4–5 times daily, especially after meals. You may brush your teeth and the healing abutment, but do so gently around the surgical area.
Activity Restrictions
Limit physical activity immediately following surgery. Exercise can increase blood pressure and lead to throbbing or bleeding at the surgical site. Keep in mind that changes in diet may also reduce your energy level during the early healing period.
Wearing Your Prosthesis
Partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures should not be worn immediately after surgery and for at least 10 days, unless otherwise instructed. This restriction was discussed during your pre-operative consultation and is important to protect the implant during early healing.
Final Notes
Some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding are expected and should improve steadily each day. If symptoms worsen instead of improving, or if you have concerns at any point during recovery, please contact our office. Proper care during this healing phase plays a major role in the long-term success of your dental implant.
