Post Operative Instructions

Minor bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours after your surgery. If you experience more excessive bleeding, bite down on a gauze pad placed over the wound for 30 minutes. Contact our office immediately if you have prolonged bleeding or bleeding that cannot be controlled. Our emergency dental technicians can see you right away.

It is perfectly normal to experience minor swelling immediately after surgery, and this may persist for a few days. To reduce swelling, you can hold an ice pack or a bag of ice wrapped in a towel against your cheek. It is best to apply this ice as often as possible for the first 36 hours after surgery.

If you experience any discomfort after the local anesthetic wears off, you can take pain medication such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil). However, it's important to follow the instructions for the number of doses you can take in a given period and to refrain from mixing certain medications. If you've been prescribed medication, make sure to take it only as instructed. If you experience severe or persistent pain, please contact our office immediately.

If you have been prescribed antibiotics, it is important to take them exactly as instructed by your doctor until you have completed the full course of medication. Antibiotics are crucial for preventing infection, which is vital for the success of your surgery.

Please use any prescribed mouthwash as directed, usually the night after your surgery before you go to bed. For the next few days, use this mouthwash 1-2 times daily (in the morning and at night) and start rinsing your mouth with warm salt water 4-5 times a day, particularly after eating. This prevents food debris from being trapped by the surgical site, which can potentially cause an infection. You can resume gently brushing your teeth, including the surgical site, with a soft toothbrush after the first 24 hours.

It is important to drink the recommended amount of water every day and consume nutrient-rich foods to help your body recover from surgery. Avoid consuming hot foods or drinks and chewing foods directly on the implant site. Following surgery, stick to a soft food diet such as protein shakes, yogurt, applesauce, etc. You can resume a normal diet within a few days or as directed by your doctor.

It's important to avoid exercising or engaging in physical activities that can cause an increase in blood flow. This activity can disturb the surgical site during the first week after your surgery. Additionally, you should avoid activities that may increase the risk of impact or injury to your mouth. If you experience any complications such as bleeding or throbbing at the surgical site during exercise, please stop immediately and contact our office.