Aftercare following surgery
You have just received an implant or decided in favour of such a therapy, a state-of-the-art tooth replacement treatment option that requires proper care and maintenance. This leaflet contains important information that should be followed after dental implants have been surgically placed.
Surgery and healing period
The implant is inserted in the jaw bone under local anaesthetic. The surgical incision is then closed with fine sutures, which will be removed after 7-10 days.
Temporary restoration
During the healing period, the implant will be fitted with either a healing cap or a temporary restoration (i.e., a crown, bridge or denture) depending upon your individual situation. Call the practice if your temporary restoration becomes loose
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Driving
In the first few hours after surgery, your ability to drive may be impaired depending on the type of anaesthesia and pain medication you are given. Ask your dentist how you may be affected.
Head up
Keep your head elevated throughout the day. Sitting is better than lying down. At night, position your head higher than the rest of your body. While sleeping, avoid resting your head on the side where the surgery took place.
Eating and drinking
Drinking is possible even soon after surgery. Avoid hot drinks. Do not eat before the anaesthetic has fully worn off.
Irritants
Irritants can cause complications. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid alcohol, nicotine, coffee, black tea, and fresh milk products for the first three days after surgery. Do not smoke.
Exercise
Avoid vigorous exercise for the first three days after surgery.
Dental care
Do not use a toothbrush in the surgical area for ten days, or until instructed by your dentist.
Do not rinse within 8 hours after surgery as this may cause bleeding.
Begin rinsing the day after surgery, three times per day (e.g., after breakfast and lunch, before going to bed) .with the prescribed rinsing solution.
Possible side effects after surgery
Implantation is a routine procedure and complications are very rare. Nonetheless, you may experience some discomfort and other side effects in the period after surgery. Should you experience any side effects, it is important to react appropriately
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Bleeding or pain after surgery
Seeding
In case of bleeding, bite on a folded pad of gauze for one hour. Do not replace the pad during this time. Keep your head elevated and apply external cooling to your cheek.
If you continue to experience bleeding, call your doctor.
Swelling
You can reduce possible swelling by applying an ice pack to your face on the surgical area. Intermittent application is most effective (e.g., 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off).
Keep your head elevated above chest level during the first two days and nights after the surgery. Sitting is better than lying down.
Medication
If your dentist prescribed painkillers and/or antibiotics for you, keep to the specified dosage.
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When should you call your dentist?
- If you have persistent complaints, swelling or throbbing pain several days after surgery.
- If bleeding recurs.
- If you still feel numb 12 hours after surgery.
- If you have any symptoms or questions not covered in your postoperative instructions.
Follow your dentist's instructions for follow-up visits.
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