After Placement of Dental Implants

After Placement of Dental Implants

Caring for the Area

• Do not disturb the wound on the day of surgery. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the area.

• You will notice a small metal healing abutment sitting through the gum — this is normal.

Bleeding

• A small amount of bleeding or blood-tinged saliva is normal for up to 24 hours.

• If bleeding is heavy, place a gauze pad directly over the area and bite firmly for 15 minutes.

• If bleeding continues, please contact the practice. Significant bleeding after implant surgery is uncommon.

Swelling

• Some swelling is normal.

• You may use the compression face wraps provided, especially if a tooth was removed at the same time as the implant.

• If you have had an implant only, cooling wraps are usually not required.

Eating and Drinking

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Avoid hot food or drinks while the area is numb to prevent accidental injury.

• Stick to soft foods and liquids on the day of surgery.

• Return to your normal diet as soon as you are comfortable, unless advised otherwise.

Pain Relief

• Start pain relief as soon as possible after surgery (ideally before discomfort begins).

• For moderate pain: Paracetamol (2 tablets every 6 hours).

• Celecoxib may be taken once or twice daily to reduce inflammation.

• For stronger pain, take the prescribed medication (usually Codeine or Tramadol) as directed.

• Do not take any medication you are allergic to or have been advised to avoid by your doctor.

Antibiotics

• Take all prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed to help prevent infection.

Oral Hygiene

• Good oral hygiene supports healing.

• Begin using the provided oral rinse the day after surgery, twice daily (after breakfast and before bed). Rinse for 1 minute, then spit.

• Use warm saltwater rinses (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) 4–5 times daily, especially after meals.

• You may brush your teeth and the healing abutments — just be gentle around the surgical area.

Activity

• Keep physical activity light for the first few days.

• Exercise may cause throbbing or bleeding — if this happens, stop and rest.

• Reduced food intake can make you feel weaker than usual, so take it easy.

Wearing Dentures

• Partial or full dentures can be worn immediately if we have adjusted them.