Post-Op: Dental Implants

• Do NOT disturb the wound. Good hygiene is important- keep it clean. You can use a Q-tip soaked in Peridex to gently keep the implant area clean and free of plaque. Gently brush the surrounding teeth. You will usually have a follow-up appointment around a week after your implant placement. After this point you can usually start gently using a tooth brush in the implant area. Call us if any questions.

• Avoid chewing in the area of the implant. They need immobility to heal. Chewing on the implant is known to compromise its healing.

• Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery, but is usually pretty minimal with implants. To minimize swelling, apply an ice pack for the first 48 hours as needed..

• Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot liquids or food. Soft food and liquids can be eaten on the day of surgery. Just avoid chewing on the implant for the duration of its healing.

• Warm salt water rinses can be done after meals.

• If you’re a smoker try to minimize smoking.

Medication Overview

• Narcotic Pain Medication: narcotics are often not needed for implant surgery, but take them as needed and as prescribed.

• Antibiotic: If an antibiotic was prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if all symptoms are gone.

• Ibuprofen: anti-inflammatory meds are the mainstay of pain control. Unless you’re unable to take NSAIDS, take them as prescribed.