Instructions Following Implant Surgery/Implant Treatment

POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

Swelling and discomfort typically peaks at 3-5 days after surgery. Bruising and mild stiffness in the jaw is also normal and to be expected. Follow these instructions to reduce complications and improve healing.

1. BLEEDING
  • Bite firmly on gauze for 30 min.
  • Mild oozing for 1–2 days is normal.
  • If bleeding is persistent, bite on gauze or moist black tea bag for another 30 min.
  • Do not: use straws, spit forcefully, slurp, create suction, or drink soda for a week.
2. PAIN & MEDICATIONS
  • Fill prescriptions promptly; take as directed.
  • Start with anti-inflammatories (Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Toradol.)
  • Add pain meds if needed (Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Tramadol, Tylenol #3).
  • Alternate anti-inflammatory and pain med every 2–3 hrs for best control.
  • Max Tylenol: 4,000mg/day.
  • Do not drive, drink alcohol, or use machinery on pain meds.
  • Antibiotics (if prescribed) begin the day after surgery. Consider taking a probiotic.

3. SWELLING
  • Ice packs: 20 min on/off for 2 days.
  • Switch to moist heat on day 3.
  • Sleep with head elevated.

4. DIET
  • Soft foods 2–3 days (yogurt, eggs, pasta, soup, mashed potatoes.)
  • Advance diet as tolerated.
  • Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods.
  • Avoid foods with small particulates such as rice, quinoa, smoothies with seeds.

5. ORAL HYGIENE
  • Brush teeth after 24 hrs, avoid surgical sites for 5 days.
  • Saltwater rinses starting the day after surgery: 4-6x/day. Including after every meal.
  • If prescribed Peridex rinse, use twice daily for a maximum of 2 weeks.

6. BONE GRAFT (if done)
  • Gritty sensation for 1–2 weeks is normal.
  • Do not disturb site or use Waterpik/toothpicks.

7. NAUSEA
  • Small sips of ginger ale, tea, or broth.
  • Use prescribed Zofran or OTC options (Benadryl, Emetrol) if needed.

8. LIP CARE
  • Apply ointment (Vaseline, Aquaphor, A&D, etc.) as needed.

9. SMOKING
  • Do not smoke/vape for at least 5 days.
  • Nicotine delays healing and increases risk of dry socket.

10. ACTIVITY
  • No strenuous exercise or elevated heart rate >120 for 2 weeks.

11. DENTURES
  • Leave in place for first 24 hrs.
  • After 24 hrs: remove briefly to rinse, then reinsert.
  • Follow up with dentist in 24–48 hrs for adjustment.

12. CONTACT