After Dental Implants

Treat Bleeding and Swelling

The first hour, we recommend that you bite down firmly on the gauze that has been placed over the surgical areas. Do not remove or change it for the first hour unless bleeding is excessive and gauze is soaked with blood. You can carefully remove it after one hour. If bleeding continues, place new gauze and bite down firmly to apply pressure for an additional 30 minutes.

It is not uncommon to ooze blood for 24-48 hours after dental implants are placed. Gently bite down on gauze or place a moistened tea bag at the surgical site for 30 minutes–the tannic acid in the tea leaves will help to promote blood clotting. If bleeding is still severe, please contact us.

Swelling is normal after surgery and will most likely continue at least two to four days. It can be minimized by applying an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the cheek adjacent to the surgical area. Bruising may also appear two or three days after surgery.

Be Careful

Make sure not to disturb the surgical site of your dental implants. Do not rinse vigorously or probe the area with any objects. We h2ly discourage smoking during the healing phase. Smoking will impede healing and can cause increased pain and chance of dry socket.

Take it Easy

Activities after surgery should be limited for the first 24-48 hours. Strenuous exercise, bending, or lifting can result in excessive bleeding, swelling, and pain. Take caution when moving to from a lying position to standing. If you stand up too quickly you may become lightheaded or dizzy.

Get Ahead of the Pain

Most patients experience different levels of discomfort after oral surgery. If you have been given a prescription for pain medication, take the first pill before the local anesthetic has worn off. If the pain is still very severe, you may supplement it with 600-800 mg of ibuprofen every six hours. After a day or two, you will probably find that taking ibuprofen will be enough to manage your discomfort.

Taking your pain pill with food can help to reduce nausea. Sipping on flat ginger ale often helps. If nausea or vomiting persists, call our office.

Eat Well

Eating nourishing, soft foods can help keep up your strength and heal more quickly. To avoid biting yourself, do not chew anything until the sensation in your tongue, cheeks, and lips has returned. Avoid hot foods and beverages. Do not use a straw for the first few days after surgery, as the sucking motion can dislodge blood clots.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean after dental implants are vital to avoid infection and facilitate healing. You may brush your teeth the night of surgery, but be gentle and avoid brushing vigorously near the surgical sites. You can start rinsing your mouth with warm salt water 24 hours after surgery (mix 1 tablespoon of salt with 8 ounces of water). Rinse at least 2-3 times a day, especially after eating.

Once your dental implants have been placed, you will be well on your way to getting your new teeth! If you have any questions or concerns about the healing process, please call our Family Dentistry of Toms River office
at 732-244-8078.

Get In Touch