After Implant Placement

1Bleeding

Some bleeding or redness in your saliva is normal for the first 24 hours. Bite gently on gauze placed over the surgical area for 30 minutes to 1 hour. If bleeding continues, please call our office.

2Swelling

Swelling is to be expected. Apply an ice pack to the face over the surgical area, on and off, for the first 24–48 hours, and keep your head elevated.

3Protecting Your Implant

• Do not apply pressure to the implant or prosthesis with your tongue or fingers.
• Do not eat sticky or hard foods. Eat soft foods, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid chewing on the implant site.
• Do not rinse for at least 24 hours.
• Do not drink through a straw.
• Do not smoke or use tobacco. Smoking delays healing; avoid it for at least 2 to 3 weeks after implant surgery.

4Medications

Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed, and finish the full course of any antibiotic.

5Please Call the Office If

• Numbness persists after the day of surgery.
• Your temporary tooth or prosthesis becomes loose or breaks.
• Pain increases after several days.
• The implant feels loose.

Sensitivity to cold on your natural teeth can occur and will disappear gradually with time. If you have any questions, please call us at 361-992-3873.