IMPLANT SURGERY - POST OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

 

  1. Apply cold compresses to outside of face in the area of surgery-15 minutes on, 15 minutes off-for 4-6 hours. Do not use after 36 hours. It is not unusual to have post-operative swelling. Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. Some swelling should be expected. If it does occur, it will reach its maximum in 48-72 hours, and then it will start to decrease.

  2. Take prescribed antibiotics as directed until all medication is consumed. Take pain relievers as directed but only as often as is necessary to manage the discomfort. Ideally, pain medication should be taken BEFORE numbness wears off. For light discomfort or moderate pain one or two 200 mg tablets of Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Rupan, Advil, Motrin) should be taken every three to four hours. Do not exceed 2400 mg per 24 hours. In addition you may use a very effective analgesic and antipyretic agent, Acetaminophen (Tylenol Extra Strength, Paracetamol), one or two every six hours. Some medications may cause an upset stomach. Taking these with food will lessen this side-effect.

  3. Do not rinse your mouth for the first 18-24 hours. Begin the use of the prescribed rinse (special mouthwash - chlorhexidine gluconate 0,12% - or warm salt-water) after the first 24 hours and rinse gently after meals and between 6-8 times a day for at least one week.

  4. Fluids should be consumed as soon as possible. It is recommended that you drink 6-8 glasses of water over the remainder of the day following surgery. Avoid using a straw as it may cause a suction, which may loosen clotting, causing bleeding.

  5. For the first 24 hours, eat soft, cool foods that can be easily chewed or swallowed. Avoid eating or drinking hot or very cold foods or liquids (coffee, soup, tea). Avoid sharp, spicy, acidic or chewy foods for several days. Maintain a balanced diet.

  6. Do not raise your lip or pull on the cheek to look at the surgical site. This might tear the sutures(stitches).

  7. A little bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal after the surgery. If worried, place a wet teabag firmly against the area for 30 minutes or longer if necessary. If bleeding continues, please call the office.

  8. Avoid brushing and flossing for the first six days in the surgical area. After 6 days, brush and floss very delicately. Begin to brush the NON-SURGICAL areas the day following surgery. Good oral hygiene is essential to good healing.

  9. Do not smoke, spit, blow your nose, or take any alcoholic beverages for the first 24 hours. These actions may delay healing, increase discomfort, encourage bleeding and cause complications.

  10. Rest quietly with your head elevated for the remainder of the day following surgery. Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. Always get up slowing from a reclining position to prevent dizziness. To encourage rapid healing, please REST!


Please call our office if you have any questions or concerns.