Post-Operative Instructions: Implants

Bleeding

·  Minor bleeding or blood-tinged saliva is normal for the rest of the day.

·  Slight oozing may occur.

·  If bleeding becomes excessive or does not slow, contact our office.

Numbness

·  Local anesthetic will cause numbness for several hours after surgery.

·  Be careful not to bite, chew, pinch, or scratch the numb area.

·  Rarely, implant procedures may cause temporary numbness or tingling that can last several weeks or longer.

Pain Control

·  Some discomfort is normal after surgery.

·  Take prescribed pain medication as directed.

·  Do not exceed the recommended dose.

·  Taking pain medication with food or milk can help prevent stomach upset.

·  Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or drinking alcohol while taking prescription pain medications.

Antibiotics

·  If prescribed, take all antibiotics exactly as directed until finished.

·  Do not stop early, even if you feel better.

·  Women: Some antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Use an alternate form of birth control for two months.

Swelling

·  Swelling is expected and may increase during the first 24–48 hours.

·  Apply an ice pack to the outside of the face over the surgical area for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off for the first day.

·  Swelling should gradually improve after the first few days.

Activity

·  Rest for the remainder of the day after surgery.

·  Avoid strenuous activity and exercise for 24 hours, as increased blood pressure can cause bleeding and delay healing.

Brushing

·  Do not brush your teeth for the first 8 hours after surgery.

·  After 8 hours, you may brush gently, avoiding the surgical area for 3 days.

Rinsing

·  Do not rinse or swish for the first 24 hours.

·  After 24 hours, gently rinse with a saltwater solution or with prescribed rinse (Peridex)

o  ½ teaspoon salt + ½ teaspoon baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water

·  Avoid commercial mouth rinses.

·  Eat soft foods for the first two days.

·  Maintain a well-balanced diet to promote healing.

·  Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages.

·  Drink plenty of water.

·  Avoid alcohol for 48 hours.

·  Return to normal foods gradually as comfort allows.

Smoking

·  Do not smoke following implant surgery.

·  Smoking significantly reduces healing and the long-term success of dental implants.

Oral Pressure

·  Avoid creating pressure in the mouth for at least 48 hours.

·  Do not drink through a straw, spit forcefully, or blow up balloons.

·  Nausea is most commonly caused by taking pain medication on an empty stomach.

·  Reduce nausea by eating soft food before taking medication and drinking a full glass of water.

·  If your sinus was involved during surgery:

o  Do not blow your nose

o  Avoid playing wind instruments

·  These precautions should be followed for one week.

·  Decongestant medications may be recommended.

·  To prevent pressure on the implant during healing, dentures or removable appliances may need to be adjusted.

·  In some cases, you may need to go without dentures for a period of time.

·  A temporary removable appliance may be provided for cosmetic purposes until a final restoration is placed.

·  You may need to return within 7–14 days for suture removal or a healing check.

·  After the implant has integrated, a small second procedure may be required to expose the implant before final restoration.

·  Timely follow-up is important for implant success.

·  Uncontrolled or worsening pain

·  Excessive or persistent bleeding

·  Increasing swelling after several days

·  Fever

·  Signs of infection

·  Any concerns or questions about healing

© 2025 John E. Sullivan DDS, P.C.

This document is the property of John E. Sullivan DDS, P.C. and is intended for use within this practice only.