Important Instructions After Dental Implant Surgery

Important Instructions After Dental Implant Surgery

Controlling Bleeding

• Minor oozing or pink saliva is expected during the first 24 hours. Place a firm sterile gauze pad over the surgical site and bite down gently for 30 to 60 minutes.

• If active bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite down steadily. Contact your surgeon if bleeding remains heavy.

Managing Swelling

• Facial swelling or bruising near the implant site is normal and peaks around 48 hours.

• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek for 10-15 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours.

Pain Management

• Take pain medications and antibiotics exactly as prescribed before the numbness wears off completely.

• Do not take unauthorized medications without checking with your surgical team.

Diet and Nutrition

• Maintain a soft, cool diet for the first few days (yogurt, smoothies, chilled soups, applesauce).

• Do not drink through a straw, and avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could disturb the healing blood clot.

Oral Hygiene and Rinsing

• Do not rinse vigorously or spit during the first 24 hours.

• After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water or prescribed chlorhexidine mouthwash after meals.

• Brush remaining teeth carefully, avoiding direct pressure on the surgical wound.

Smoking and Tobacco Cessation

• Strictly avoid smoking or vaping for at least 2 weeks after surgery, as nicotine drastically compromises osseointegration and increases implant failure rates.

Physical Rest

• Rest quietly with your head elevated and avoid heavy exercise or strenuous physical work for the first 3 days.

Follow-Up and Inquiries

• Keep all scheduled post-operative suture removal and osseointegration check-up visits.

• Contact your implantologist immediately if you experience persistent numbness, escalating pain, or fever.