Implant Pre-Operative Instructions
- If you were prescribed medication for your surgery, these should be started, as directed, the day before your surgery.
- Bring all medications WE PRESCRIBED to appointment.
- Do not drink liquids immediately prior to appointment, especially those containing caffeine.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Do not wear make-up.
- If you are having oral sedation for your surgery, you should bring someone with you to take you home after the surgery.
Implant Post-Operative Instructions
After implants have been placed, its important to follow these recommendations to ensure their long-term success.
- AVOID tobacco products for at least 48-72 hours. Smoking can be a high risk factor in post operative inflammation or infection which could lead to loss of your implant!
- After surgery, begin very gentle warm salt water rinses (1 tsp. salt for every 8 oz. of warm water). This should be done three or four times daily to help clean and soothe the tissue at the surgery site.
- If we recommended a mouth rinse, use as directed. DO NOT us any other type of mouthwash for at least one week. Rinsing with mouthwash can be overly stringent and drying to the tissue and inhibit healing.
- You can brush your teeth the day of surgery, but avoid the area of the implant. Do not floss the site for four weeks. You can brush and floss other teeth normally.
- To reduce discomfort or swelling for the first 24 hours following surgery use ice packs, (20 minutes on/20 minutes off).
- If antibiotic or other medications were prescribed it is very important to finish your medications. If you experience any problem with your medication or if you develop a fever or chills, contact our office right away.
- Avoid chewing until the numbness has worn off completely. For the first 24 hours, drink lots of liquids and eat soft, nutritious foods (see our recipe book for post surgery food ideas). Avoid chewing in the area until we evaluate your situation to determine how soon you can chew on the implant. Also avoid anything that is hard, crunchy, chewy or small. These types of foods can be damaging to the surgery area and interfere with healing.