IMPLANT SURGERY – HOMECARE INSTRUCTIONS

You’ve just had your implant placed – Now what?

GENERAL CARE

• Take it easy for the first three to five days. It will help keep your blood pressure stable and reduce bleeding.
• Don’t use tobacco for at least 24 hours. If possible, limit or avoid using tobacco products for the first few months. Tobacco slows healing and increases the chance that your body will reject the implant.

CHEWING & EATING

• Avoid chewing until the numbness has worn off.
• If we placed a temporary restoration, wait at least 30 minutes before chewing anything.
• First 24 hours – drink lots of liquids and eat only soft foods.
• After 24 hours – eat a normal diet, chewing on the opposite side of your mouth, away from the implant site.
• Avoid very hot or spicy foods until gums are fully healed.

BRUSING & FLOSSING

• First 14 Days – gently wipe the implant site with gauze. After the first two weeks brush with a soft toothbrush.
• Don’t floss the site for four weeks, then resume as normal.
• We will adjust your brushing and flossing timetable as necessary.

MEDICATIONS & DISCOMFORT

• If antibiotics were prescribed, remember to take them for the full indicated time, even if the symptoms improve.
• To control discomfort, take pain medication before the anesthetic has worn off or as recommended. It is normal to experience some discomfort for several days after surgery.
• For the first 24 hours apply ice packs, 20 minutes on then 20 minutes off to control swelling.
• Rinse mouth with warm salt water three times a day to reduce discomfort and swelling. Use about one teaspoon of salt per glass of warm water.

WHEN TO CALL US?

Call us immediately if you have heavy or increased bleeding or if implants gradually show through the gum tissue. If you have sensitivity or discomfort that lasts longer than three or four days, we can be reached at 440.461.9600.