After Placement of Dental Implants

Gauze Dressing – Maintain light pressure in the surgical site by biting gently on gauze. After 30 minutes check gauze, and if necessary, replace. Keep partial/denture out until post-op appointment, approximately one week after implant is placed.

Bleeding – Slow oozing is normal for the first 24 hours following placement, and saliva may be reddish in color. If there is excessive bleeding you should contact our office. In addition, you may get some swelling and/or bruising. This is usually of no concern and is not a complication. Sutures will be removed at your post-op appointment.

Comfort – Take pain medication as needed within the first hour of leaving our office. Some prescription medication may cause drowsiness and you should not drink alcohol, or drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.

Ice – On the day of surgery ice packs should be applied to the side of the face of the implant for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off to decrease swelling.

Mouth Hygiene – You may rinse with warm salt water (dissolve 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz. warm water) several times a day. Wipe the implant area with wet gauze, or q-tip, to keep it clean, but don’t brush the area for the first week. Brush the rest of your teeth regularly, but use care in the implant area.

Eating – Avoid hard, crunchy items and chewing on the implant site.

Activity – I.V. sedation patients should not drive for 24 hours. Nausea can usually be prevented by taking your medications after meals.

*AVOID PRESSURE ON THE IMPLANTS. THIS INCLUDES WEARING YOUR DENTAL APPLIANCES AND EATING ON THE SIDE OF THE IMPLANT.

*MAINTAIN EXCELLENT HYGIENE