Post-Op Care: Dental Implants
Everything You Need to Know for a Safe and Successful Recovery
Follow these detailed instructions to support healing, reduce discomfort, and protect your implant investment.
Protect the Surgical Site
- Do not disturb the wound on the day of surgery.
- Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the area.
- You may notice a metal healing abutment protruding through the gum—this is normal.
Bleeding
- Slight bleeding or pink-tinged saliva is normal for the first 24 hours.
- If bleeding becomes excessive (mouth fills with blood), bite firmly on a gauze pad for 30 minutes.
- If bleeding continues, call our office for further instructions.
Swelling
- Swelling is expected and can be minimized by applying ice packs to the cheek near the surgical area.
- Use ice as much as possible for the first 36 hours.
Diet
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid hot foods or drinks.
- Stick to soft foods and liquids on the day of surgery.
- Gradually return to a normal diet as tolerated, unless otherwise directed.
Pain Management
- Begin taking pain medication as soon as the local anesthetic wears off.
- Take Tylenol and/or ibuprofen as instructed by our doctors if you do not have allergies to these types of medications.
- For severe pain, take prescribed medication as directed.
- You must take your antibiotics as instructed until finished to avoid post operative infections/complications
Wearing Dentures or Partials
- Do not wear partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures immediately after surgery.
- Avoid use for at least 10 days, unless otherwise instructed.
Oral Hygiene
- Begin rinsing with Peridex Oral Rinse the night of surgery.
- Continue using it twice daily (after breakfast and before bed).
- Use warm saltwater rinses (1 tsp salt in 1 cup of warm water) 4–5 times daily, especially after meals.
- Brush your teeth gently, including the healing abutments—avoid brushing directly on the surgical site at first.
Activity
- Limit physical activity in the first 48 hours.
- If you experience throbbing or bleeding, stop exercising and rest.
- Lack of proper nutrition may make you feel weak—listen to your body.
Your Healing Is Our Priority
We're Just a Phone Call Away