Dental Implant Post-Op Care Instructions

Congratulations on your new dental implant! Proper care after surgery is essential for successful healing. Please follow these instructions carefully:

Immediate Aftercare (First 24-48 Hours)

Bleeding Control

✔ Bite gently on gauze for 30-60 minutes
✔ Replace gauze as needed
✔ Some oozing is normal - avoid excessive spitting

Swelling Management

✔ Apply ice packs (20 min on/20 min off) for first 24 hours
✔ Sleep with head elevated on 2 pillows

Pain Relief

✔ Take prescribed pain medication as directed
✔ Ibuprofen (Advil) helps with swelling and discomfort
✔ Avoid aspirin (can increase bleeding)

Eating & Drinking

First 24 Hours

✔ Soft, cool foods only (yogurt, pudding, applesauce)
✔ Avoid hot liquids - can increase bleeding

First Week

✔ Stick to soft foods (mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies)
✔ Chew on opposite side of implant
✔ Avoid:
✖ Hard/crunchy foods
✖ Spicy/acidic foods
✖ Straws (suction can dislodge blood clot)

Oral Hygiene

First 24 Hours

✔ No rinsing - may disturb healing

After 24 Hours

✔ Gentle saltwater rinses (1/2 tsp salt in warm water) 2-3x daily
✔ Brush carefully - avoid surgical site for first few days
✔ No commercial mouthwash for first week

Activity Restrictions

✔ Rest for first 24 hours
✔ Avoid strenuous activity for 3-5 days
✔ No smoking/vaping for at least 2 weeks (ideally longer)
✔ Avoid alcohol while taking medications

Healing Timeline

1-3 Days: Most discomfort/swelling
1 Week: Stitches dissolve/removed
2 Weeks: Gum heals around implant
3-6 Months: Implant fuses with bone (osseointegration)

When to Call Us

Contact our office immediately if you experience:
⚠ Severe pain not relieved by medication
⚠ Excessive bleeding that won't stop
⚠ Fever over 101°F
⚠ Pus or foul taste in mouth
⚠ Implant feels loose

Long-Term Care

✔ Attend all follow-up appointments
✔ Maintain excellent oral hygiene
✔ Avoid chewing hard items (ice, pens) on implant
✔ Quit smoking for best long-term results

Remember: Proper healing now means your implant will last for decades!

"Your beautiful, functional smile starts with great aftercare!"