Instructions after Implant Surgery (What to do: What not to do after surgery)

Instructions after Implant Surgery (What to do: What not to do after surgery)

This treatment is carried out in 2 phases

  • First is Surgical phase (placement of implant) where titanium screw is placed in jaw and allow it to heal.
  • Second phase is prosthetic phase (tooth cap/ bridge making) where measurements are taken and customised the cap or bridge is made and lost teeth are replaced.
  • First phase is simple surgical procedure where dental implant is inserted into the jaw bone and stiches are placed. However, appropriate care is necessary to give the best results and long-term success. 

1. Immediately after surgery:

  • Cotton/Guage is given which is kept in gentle biting position for about 45 min to 1 hour.
  • No spitting saliva to avoid bleeding (keep swallowing saliva).

2. Some discomfort and swelling are normal following dental implant surgery which can be manged by:

  • Taking prescribed antibiotics and pain killers as per the dentist instructions.
  • Use an ice pack on the cheek (external) side where implant surgery done for 10 to 15 minutes for about 4-5 times a day to help reduce swelling and pain.

3. Oral Hygiene:

  • Don’t clean or floss the region around the procedure for the first twenty-four hours to 48 hours.
  • After that, wash your teeth gently and avoid the surgical area for about 4-5 days.
  • Rinse your mouth gently several times a day with a saltwater solution and no rigorous gargling.
  • Alcohol-containing mouthwash should not be used since it may irritate the surgical site.

 4. Diet and Nutrition:

  • After surgery, restrict your diet to soft foods such as soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, rice items, juices and smoothies for a few days.
  • No hot and spicy foods to be taken. Cold or normal temperature is fine.
  • Anything hard, crunchy, or sticky that can irritate or press on the surgical site should be avoided.
  •  Avoid using straws and stay hydrated by drinking lots of water as sucking may impede the healing process.

5. Activity Restrictions

  • After surgery, avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and strenuous activities for at least 48 hours.
  • Brisk walk or jog is fine.
  • Avoid heavy berating yoga exercises.

6. Stay away from tobacco products and smoking, as these might impede the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

7. (Strictly no smoking for at least 10 days and better to stop smoking as it interferes with implant success).

8. Touching or poking the surgical site with your fingers or tongue might interfere with the healing process and raise the risk of infection.

Follow-Up Appointments

  • Make sure you keep all of your follow-up appointments with your dentist. These examinations are essential for monitoring your healing, removing sutures if necessary, and treating any potential problems or consequences.