Dental Implants

Avoid Disturbing the Wound

Avoid rinsing, spitting, drinking through a straw, or touching the wound on the day of the surgery.

Bleeding

It is normal to see bleeding or redness in your saliva during the first 24 hours. To control heavy bleeding, bite down on a gauze pad placed directly on the wound for 30 minutes.

When lying down, keep your head elevated with pillows.

If bleeding persists, contact us for additional advice.

Bruising

Bruises, ranging from black to blue-green and yellow, are common after surgery and may appear at the surgical site or on the lower chin. This discoloration is due to blood spreading under the tissues.

This postoperative reaction is normal and may last up to 14 days. Applying a warm, damp compress can help speed up the healing of bruises.

Swelling

Swelling is a normal bodily response to surgery and typically reaches its peak 2 to 3 days after the procedure.

Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face, near the surgical site, for 20 minutes every 20 minutes during the first 24 hours.

Diet

Until the anesthesia wears off, avoid eating hot or spicy foods as you might accidentally injure yourself.

Avoid acidic foods (like tomatoes, orange juice, and citrus fruits) until the operated area is fully healed (about 2 weeks).

Drink plenty of fluids and consume soft foods on the day of the surgery. Resume a normal diet as soon as possible, unless otherwise directed.

Nausea

Anesthetics or prescribed medications can cause nausea. To minimize this risk, take medications with food and avoid taking them on an empty stomach.

Pain

Start taking painkillers as soon as the local anesthesia begins to wear off.

Antibiotics

It is crucial to follow the instructions for all prescribed medications. Each medication has a specific role during the postoperative period.

Stop taking antibiotics if you develop a rash or persistent stomach pain, and inform our office immediately.

Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential for optimal healing:

On the evening of the surgery, use Peridex mouthwash before going to bed.

The day after the surgery, use Peridex (or Peroex) twice a day, after breakfast and before bed. Rinse gently for at least 30 seconds, then spit out.

Rinse gently with warm, salty water (1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water) 4 to 5 times a day, especially after meals.

Brush your teeth and healing abutments carefully, starting slowly and avoiding the operated areas initially.

Activity

Limit physical activities for the first 3 days after surgery to prevent bleeding and postoperative discomfort.

Smoking and Alcohol

• Smoking and alcohol consumption delay healing and increase the risk of infection, which can lead to implant or bone graft failure.
• Do not smoke or consume alcohol until the wound is fully healed (about 2 weeks).

Stitches

If stitches were placed, they will be removed during your follow-up appointment, usually one to two weeks after the surgery. Some stitches may come out prematurely, which is normal and should not be a concern.

If pain or persistent swelling is not relieved by the prescribed medications, contact our clinic immediately at 514-392-1110.

Wishing you a speedy recovery!