Dental Implant Post-Op Instructions | Gardens Dentistry

Your implant procedure was completed today. Following these instructions carefully will help ensure proper healing and the long-term success of your implant. Please do not hesitate to call our office with any questions or concerns.

Bleeding

• Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24–48 hours following surgery.
• If heavy bleeding occurs, fold and place a clean gauze pad directly over the surgical site and bite firmly for 30 minutes without peeking. Repeat as needed.
• Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw — this can disturb the clot and increase bleeding.
• Keep your head elevated above your heart, even while sleeping. Use an extra pillow.

Swelling

• Swelling after implant surgery is normal and expected. It typically peaks at 48–72 hours and then gradually improves.
• Apply an ice pack (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) to the outside of your face for the first 24 hours.
• After 24 hours, switch to warm moist heat to help reduce residual swelling.
• Slight bruising on the face or neck is also possible and will resolve on its own.

Pain Management

• Take your prescribed medications exactly as directed. Begin taking them before the anesthetic wears off for best results.
• For mild to moderate pain, ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) 600–800 mg every 6–8 hours with food is effective, unless contraindicated.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be alternated with ibuprofen for better pain control.
• Do not take aspirin — it thins the blood and can increase bleeding.
• If pain is not controlled or is worsening after 3–4 days, please contact our office.

Diet & Hydration

• Maintain a soft diet for at least 1–2 weeks or as instructed: yogurt, eggs, soft pasta, mashed potatoes, lukewarm soups, smoothies.
• Chew on the opposite side of the implant site whenever possible.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, or sticky foods near the surgical area.
• Stay well hydrated. Drink at least 6–8 glasses of water per day.
• Do not use a straw for at least 72 hours.

Oral Hygiene

• Do not rinse, spit, or brush the surgical site on the day of surgery.
• Starting the morning after surgery: gently rinse with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz. warm water) 4–5 times daily, especially after meals.
• If a Chlorhexidine (Peridex) rinse was prescribed, use it twice daily as directed.
• Continue to brush and floss all other teeth normally using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Do not use a Water Pik or electric toothbrush near the implant site until cleared by your doctor.
• Do not use alcohol-based mouthwash for at least 2 weeks.

Physical Activity

• Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and exercise for at least 48–72 hours after surgery.
• Rest for the remainder of the day of your surgery.
• Avoid bending over or any activity that causes throbbing at the surgical site.

Medications & Antibiotics

• If antibiotics were prescribed, complete the entire course even if you feel better.
• Take all medications with food to minimize stomach upset.
• If you experience an allergic reaction (rash, hives, difficulty breathing), stop the medication and call our office or seek emergency care immediately.

Things to Avoid

• Do not smoke or use tobacco products for at least 2 weeks — smoking significantly impairs healing and increases the risk of implant failure.
• Do not drink alcohol for at least 48 hours, or while taking prescription medications.
• Do not probe, touch, or apply pressure to the surgical site.
• Do not wear a removable denture or partial that rests on the implant site unless instructed. If it causes pain, do not wear it and call our office.

Sinus Precautions — Upper Jaw / Sinus Lift Cases Only

• Avoid blowing your nose forcefully for 2 weeks after surgery.
• If you sneeze, do so with your mouth open to avoid sinus pressure.
• A small amount of nasal bleeding is normal for the first 1–2 days.
• If you experience significant nasal bleeding, fever, or facial pressure, contact our office immediately.

What to Expect During Healing

• A low-grade fever is common in the first 24–48 hours.
• The surgical site may appear white or yellowish as granulation tissue forms — this is normal.
• Sutures will either dissolve or be removed at your follow-up appointment.
• Some numbness or tingling in the lip, chin, or tongue is normal and usually temporary.
• Full osseointegration (bone healing around the implant) takes approximately 3–6 months.