Post Implant Care

Immediate Post-Op Instructions

After the procedure, your dentist will provide specific instructions for caring for your dental implants.

Post-op instructions are mainly to keep the wound as clean as possible over the next week.

It’s fine to brush the other teeth morning and night as normal.

Rinsing with a warm salt water mouthwash will help to minimise contamination of the wound and this should be done 2-3 times daily for the next week. Just use a teaspoon of salt in half a cup of warm water and swish this around for about 30 seconds.

Avoiding hard or crunchy foods for the first few days

Taking any prescribed pain medication as directed

Bleeding

Some bleeding can be a side effect of dental implant surgery, and it’s normal to experience minor bleeding for the first 24 hours after the procedure. Bleeding can be managed by biting down on a gauze pad for about 20 to 30 minutes. This will help form a clot at the implant site and stop the bleeding.

If bleeding persists or becomes heavy, contact your dentist immediately as this could be a sign of a complication. Your dentist may recommend additional measures, such as reapplying gauze or taking medication to help stop the bleeding.

Swelling

Swelling is a common side effect of the procedure and can be managed by applying ice to the affected area for the first 24 hours. Avoiding hard or crunchy foods for the first few days can also help reduce swelling.

Managing Pain

Analgesia such as ibuprofen, aspirin or paracetamol are fine to use as needed.  It will be pretty sore and swollen for about a week.

Diet

Make sure to stick to a soft diet for the first few days following the procedure to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the implant site. As the implant site heals, you can gradually return to a normal diet. Avoid smoking or alcoholic beverages after the procedure as they can interfere with the healing process and cause complications. 

Physical Activity

Avoid strenuous physical activity for the first few days following the procedure to allow the implant site to heal properly. Gradually return to your normal activity level as directed by your dentist. Overexertion may lead to post-op bleeding or discomfort, so do your best to take it easy for the first few days of your recovery.