After Placement of Dental Implants

Bleeding

Minor bleeding is normal after surgery. Slight oozing and pink in your saliva is to be expected for the first 24 hours. Heavy bleeding should slow significantly after two hours. Bite with gentle pressure on gauze for 30-45 minutes. After two hours, if the bleeding has slowed significantly, you can discontinue the use of gauze. 

Swelling

It is possible to have some swelling after surgery, especially if bone graft was placed in addition to the implant. Apply an ice pack to the affected area for about 15-20 minutes at a time. Do this as much as possible for the first 24 hours. After 24 hours, moist heat can be applied. 

Diet

Adequate food and fluid intake following surgery is most important! A soft diet is advised for the first 24 hours. It is okay to eat immediately after surgery. It is also advised to get something in your stomach before taking your pain medication to minimize stomach upset. Milkshakes or smoothies are an excellent post-surgery snack. Be sure to take out the gauze when eating and replace it with a new piece of gauze when finished. Recommended foods include but aren’t limited to: soups, pastas, eggs, soft breads, milkshakes, smoothies, yogurt and pudding. Avoid anything hard, crunchy or chewy for a few days at least. Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol for 24 hours after surgery. Avoid chewing directly over the implant site as much as possible while it is healing. 

Pain

Following surgery, it is normal to experience some pain. Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), and Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be taken together to minimize mild to moderate pain. Up to 800 mg of Ibuprofen can be taken every six (6) hours. Do not exceed 3200 mgs in a 24-hour period.  Up to 500 mg of Tylenol can be taken every 6 hours. Do not exceed 4000 mgs in 24 hours.

For severe pain, take the prescribed pain medication as directed in addition to the ibuprofen and acetaminophen. If pain persists or gets worse, it may require attention, and you should call the office. 

Antibiotics

If you are prescribed antibiotics, be sure to take them as directed to help prevent infection.

Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential to healing. After surgery, it is okay to brush and floss normally. Be sure to brush gently around the surgical area. Do not use a water pick. Regular floss is okay to use. Rinse with warm salt water (1/4 t table salt dissolved in 8 oz warm water) after eating, roughly about 3 times per day. 

Activity

Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. Any strenuous activity may increase pain and swelling.