Post-Operative Instructions: Dental Implants

Pain

• Alternate between taking ibuprofen (Advil^®, Motrin^®) and acetaminophen (Tylenol^®) every three hours. Begin with taking 600mg of ibuprofen and take 500mg of acetaminophen three hours later. Maintain this schedule so each medication is taken on its own six-hour schedule.
• If you received a stronger pain medication, take as directed in addition to ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
• Take note of the medication taken, dosage, and time taken to limit confusion.
• Take ibuprofen as soon as possible after your procedure.

Bleeding

• Refrain from using straws, spitting, or swishing for 24 hours after surgery.
• Firmly bite down on gauze placed over the surgical site. Change as needed every 45 minutes. The gauze may be removed as it turns pink. If the bleeding does not stop, or your mouth quickly fills with blood after several gauze changes, call our office.
• Gauze may be removed when eating or drinking. If bleeding still occurs at the surgical site, replace the gauze.
• Do not sleep with gauze in your mouth.

Swelling and Bruising

• Often swelling increases in the first 48 hours after surgery. It will peak within 48–72 hours before gradually reducing over the next week.
• Ice may be applied to the surgical site for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first 48 hours after surgery. Place a towel or barrier between the skin and ice pack to prevent burning.
• Elevate your head with pillows while sleeping for the first two to three nights.

Diet

• Begin drinking liquids after your surgery. Avoid hot beverages and opt for cold or cool liquids. Adhere to a soft, non-chew diet before advancing to a regular diet.
• Avoid hard, spicy, crunchy, and sharp foods for two weeks.
• Do not drink carbonated beverages for a week after your surgery.

Oral Hygiene

• Do not smoke.
• Resume your normal oral hygiene routines (brushing, flossing, etc.) after your procedure. Be gentle around the gums and surgical site.
• 24 hours after your procedure, use a gentle warm salt water rinse and continue this for a week (seven days). If you received a medicated mouth rinse, use twice a day in the morning and evening, beginning 24 hours after your procedure, or as directed.

Antibiotics

• Take any prescribed antibiotics until the treatment is complete.

Activity

• Avoid strenuous activities after your procedure. Gradually increase only as your comfort level increases.

Sinus Precautions

• Avoid sneezing and blowing your nose. If you need to sneeze, sneeze with your mouth open to equalize pressure between the mouth and nose, reducing unintentional airflow through the surgical site.