After Placement of Dental Implants

Home Instructions After Dental Implant Surgery

 
  • Bleeding
    It is normal to experience slight bleeding or redness in your saliva for the first 24 hours. Bite on a gauze pad placed over the surgical area for 30-60 minutes to control bleeding. If bleeding continues or becomes excessive, replace the gauze and apply gentle pressure. Contact us if the bleeding persists.
  • Swelling
    Swelling is common after implant placement and may increase for the first 48 hours. To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of your face near the surgical area for 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off. Swelling should decrease after the third day.
  • Pain Management
    Take any prescribed pain medication as directed or use over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Tylenol. Avoid aspirin, as it can thin the blood and prolong bleeding.
  • Diet
    Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that may irritate the surgical site. Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using straws for at least 24 hours, as this can disrupt healing.
  • Oral Hygiene
    Do not rinse your mouth or brush the surgical area on the day of the surgery. The following day, gently rinse with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) several times a day, especially after meals. Resume brushing your other teeth but be careful around the implant site.
  • Physical Activity
    Limit physical activity for the first 24-48 hours to reduce bleeding and swelling. Avoid strenuous exercise that may increase blood pressure and interfere with healing.
  • Smoking
    Do not smoke for at least 72 hours after the surgery, as smoking can significantly delay healing and increase the risk of complications like infection or implant failure.
  • Follow-Up Appointments
    It is important to attend follow-up appointments to monitor the healing of your implant and ensure its success. Contact us immediately if you experience severe pain, excessive swelling, fever, or any signs of infection.

For any questions or concerns, please call us at Pearly Smiles Dental, 630-454-7655. We’re here to support your recovery.