After Dental Implant Surgery
Charlotte, NC
 Dental implants are a popular alternative treatment to traditional tooth replacement options. We are proud to offer this revolutionary treatment at Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery. Dental implants offer a wide array of benefits over traditional treatments. They look and feel completely natural, they offer greater comfort, and they are made to be a permanent solution. Unlike traditional treatments, dental implants require a surgical procedure. After implant surgery, there is a recovery period. Here is what you can expect.
Common Post-Surgical Issues
Pain and swelling are common after implant surgery. Pain can often be managed with over the counter pain relievers. If your pain is more severe, we can provide you a prescription for something stronger. Pain usually peaks by the fourth day, and then begins to ease. During the first 24 hours, ice can be used to help limit the amount of swelling you may experience. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and hold it against your jaw for 20 minutes. Leave it off for 20 minutes and repeat as often as necessary. Swelling typically peaks after 48 to 72 hours. During this time, moist heat can be used to help swelling dissipate faster.
Bleeding is also common after surgery. When your surgery is finished, we place gauze over the surgical wounds to help clots form. Old gauze should be replaced periodically with fresh, moistened gauze. Apply gentle pressure to hold the gauze in place and ease bleeding. Bleeding generally stops after the third day.
The Importance of Rest
Taking time to rest is essential for healing. It is important that you limit your activities for at least a week following surgery. Sit or lie down with your head elevated. Do not bend, lift heavy objects, run, or perform other types of strenuous activities. These activities can increase pain, swelling, and cause more bleeding. As you begin to heal and feel better, you can slowly begin to resume your normal activities.
Your Diet after Surgery
A well-balanced diet is important for helping your body to heal. However, you will need to alter your diet following implant surgery. Stick to soft, easy to chew foods. You may even want to consume only liquids during the first 24 hours. Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy. While you may not feel like eating, it is important that you do not skip meals.
Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene helps to keep oral bacteria at bay, which aids in the prevention of infections. Do not rinse or spit during the first 24 hours. After that, a salt water rinse can be used several times throughout the day to keep your mouth clean. Brush and floss your natural teeth as normal, taking care around the surgical sites. Additionally, if you smoke, or use other tobacco products, it is important that you quit, or at least abstain while you heal.
Call the Office If
Following your aftercare instructions will help you to avoid complications, but issues can still arise. Call the office immediately if:
| • |
You experience extreme pain that cannot be controlled, even with prescription medications.
|
| • |
Excessive swelling.
|
| • |
Heavy bleeding.
|
| • |
Fever. |
Taking care of yourself after dental implant surgery is essential for proper healing and avoiding complications. Once you have fully healed from surgery, we can then begin the process of placing your final restorations. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery today. |
