Top Oral Surgeon Falcon, Peyton, Limon, Colorado Springs and surrounding areas
After Placement of Dental Implants
Do not disturb the wound. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound on the day of surgery. There will be a metal healing abutment protruding through the gingival (gum) tissue.
Bleeding
Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. However, if you experience excessive bleeding—such as your mouth filling rapidly with blood—please contact our office immediately for further guidance.
Swelling
Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize it, apply an ice pack (or a small bag of ice wrapped in a towel) to the affected cheek. Use ice continuously, as often as possible, for the first 36 hours to help reduce inflammation.
Diet
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. Soft food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.
Pain
Begin taking pain medication as soon as you feel the local anesthetic wearing off.
For moderate pain, take Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Extra Strength Tylenol (1-2 tablets every 3-4 hours) OR Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) (2-3 tablets of 200 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 3200 mg per day). Do not take Tylenol and Ibuprofen at the same time.
For severe pain, take the prescribed medication as directed.
Important Notes:
Do not take any medication if you are allergic or have been advised against it by your doctor.
Avoid driving, operating machinery, or consuming alcohol while taking prescription pain medication.
Pain and discomfort should improve each day. If pain persists or worsens, please contact our office.
Antibiotics
Be sure to take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to help prevent infection.
Oral Hygiene
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial for a smooth recovery.
The night of surgery: Use the prescribed Peridex Oral Rinse before bed.
Starting the day after surgery: Rinse with Peridex twice daily—after breakfast and before bed. Swish for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Saltwater rinses: Mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and rinse 4–5 times a day, especially after meals.
Brushing: Continue brushing your teeth and around the healing abutments, but be gentle around the surgical area.
Following these steps will help promote healing and prevent infection.
Activity
Keep physical activities to a minimum immediately following surgery. If you exercise, throbbing or bleeding may occur. If this occurs, you should discontinue exercising. Keep in mind that you are probably not taking in normal nourishment. This may weaken you and further limit your ability to exercise.
Wearing your Prosthesis
Partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures should not be used immediately after surgery for at least 10 days, as discussed in the preoperative consultation.