After Placement of Dental Implants
You have just completed the first step of your implant treatment. Proper care of your mouth will aid in the healing process and reduce the possibility of complications. The following instructions will assist you with this healing phase.
Discomfort
Discomfort often accompanies surgical procedures. Besides discomfort at the surgical site, pain may be referred to other areas, such as the ear. It may be helpful to take a prescribed medication for pain relief. In some cases, prescription pain medications may cause nausea, especially if taken on an empty stomach. These medications may also cause dizziness, therefore, do not consume alcohol, drive, or operate machinery. If you can, take Advil or other similar medications in addition to or instead of prescription pain medications. You can also take Tylenol instead of prescription pain medication, but not in conjunction with it as they both contain Tylenol. Do not wait for the pain to become severe before taking pain medications.
Bleeding
Bleeding is normal after surgery. To control this, place a gauze pack over the surgical site and apply firm pressure in that area by biting on the gauze, for 20-30 minutes. This process should be repeated until the bleeding has stopped. Nonetheless, slight oozing may occur for the first few days. If the gauze does not adequately control the bleeding, a tea bag may be wrapped in the gauze and placed over the surgical site. Vigorous rinsing, drinking through a straw, spitting, and smoking all aggravate the bleeding and should be avoided for the first 24 hours. If excessive bleeding occurs, please notify our office.
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Swelling
Swelling is a normal response to surgical procedures. It usually reaches a peak by 48-72 hours after your surgery. On occasion, swelling may be accompanied by bruising. To minimize the swelling, apply ice for the first 24-48 hours.
Diet
We would like you to eat soft nutritious foods. Care should be taken to avoid hard or crunchy foods that may cause trauma to the implant area. The day after your surgery, gently rinse with warm water after every meal to keep your mouth clean. Do not attempt to floss, brush or Water-pik in the area of surgery until after your stitches are removed. This will be approximately 7-10 days after your surgery. Once they are removed, run your toothbrush under warm water to soften the bristles. Then gently massage your gums in the area of the surgery. The rest of your mouth can be cleaned as usual. Review further cleaning techniques with your dental hygienist.
Antibiotics
We may prescribe an antibiotic course for you following your surgery. It is important that you finish this medication unless otherwise directed.
Allergic Reactions
Reactions to medications (such as penicillin or codeine) usually begin with itching, redness, or a rash. Stop taking all medications and call our office immediately.
Appliance
Your dental appliance (denture, retainer, nightguard) may be able to be worn after your surgery, if it fits without causing pain. Remember no undue pressure should be applied over the implant surgical site, as it could affect the success of your implant.
Activities
Following your procedure, you may find it advisable to take it easy for a day or two afterward. Jogging and vigorous activities should be avoided for a few days.
Smoking
Smoking has been shown to negatively affect the healing process in several ways. Therefore, it should be avoided for at least two weeks following your surgery.
Problems
Should you notice any swelling, redness, or discomfort in the area of the implant, please notify the office. If any problems, questions or concerns arise, please call us at anytime at Wilmington Office Phone Number 302-477-1800.
Following surgery, it is very important to have something to eat and/or drink. It is also helpful to take two Advil (400 mg. Ibuprofen). If you are unable to take Advil, please let us know so we can advise you on what else you might be able to take. These type medications give you a head start in minimizing discomfort before the numbness wears off.
Since pain medicine can upset your stomach, it may be best to take half of the prescribed amount. Since most tablets are scored, they can easily be broken in half. This approach will allow you to see how the medication will affect you and minimize the chance of experiencing side effects. Remember, you can always add to it if it doesn’t quite cover your discomfort. Example: one tablet every 4-6 hours would convert to ½ tablet every 2 – 3 hours.
Get up slowly after surgery and after taking any prescription pain medication. Rising too quickly can cause your blood pressure to decrease and result in lightheadedness or actual fainting. If you faint, the person with you should lay you down gently and raise your legs above the level of your head to allow for good circulation. Do not bend over and put your head in your lap. Finally, do not drive, operate machinery, drink alcoholic beverages, or do anything that requires focus or concentration while taking prescription pain medication or for 24 hours after taking it.