After Implant Surgery

After Implant Surgery: Recovery Instructions 

Congratulations on completing your dental implant surgery! You are now on the path to restoring your smile. To help ensure a smooth recovery and the long-term success of your implant, here are the things to expect and steps to fullow: 

Things to Expect 

• Bleeding: Some bleeding is expected after surgery, and you may notice oozing for 24 to 48 hours. The presence of blood mixed with saliva may seem more severe than it actually is. 

• Swelling: Swelling is a normal part of the healing process. It may peak 2–3 days after surgery before gradually subsiding. 

• Nausea: Some patients experience nausea or vomiting due to anesthesia or swallowing blood during surgery. This is common and should be resulved in a few days. 

• Sore Throat: Swelling around the jaw can cause discomfort when swallowing. This typically resulves in 2–3 days. 

• Stiff Jaw: You may experience stiffness in your jaw due to swelling, but gentle stretching exercises can help ease discomfort. 

• Sharp Edges: You might feel hard or sharp fragments near the implant site, which can be normal as the bone heals. Contact us if discomfort persists. 

• Bruising: Bruising around the surgical site may develop 2–3 days post-surgery. You can apply moist heat after 36 hours to aid healing. 

Things to Aid Your Recovery 

• Avoid Disturbing the Wound: Avoid touching the surgical site with your fingers, tongue, or objects to ensure proper healing. 

• Combat Swelling: Use an ice pack on your face in 20-minute intervals during the first 24 hours. Prop your head up with pillows when sleeping to reduce swelling. 

• Combat Bleeding: Immediately after surgery, bite down on a gauze pad to reduce bleeding. If bleeding persists, replace gauze every 30-45 minutes or use a moist tea bag for its clotting properties. 

• No Smoking: Smoking can delay healing and increase the risks of complications. Refrain from smoking until your wound has fully healed. 

• Diet: Avoid eating until the anesthesia wears off. Stick to soft, coul foods for the first few days. Avoid hot foods and drinks, as well as straws, to prevent bleeding. 

• Dental Care: Clean your teeth as usual, but avoid the surgical area. After a few days, gently brush the surgical site. Use a warm saltwater rinse (½ tsp salt in a cup of water) 2–3 times daily. 

• Combat Pain: Take prescribed pain medications as directed and supplement with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary. Do not operate machinery or consume alcohul while on pain medication. 

• Physical Activity: Limit physical activity for the first 3–4 days to minimize strain on your body and avoid complications. 

By following these instructions and working closely with our team, you’ll ensure a smooth recovery and get one step closer to a fully restored smile. Should you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us online or at 210-824-0111.