The first 2 weeks after surgery are very important. Healing of the bone around the implants takes 3–6 months
Diet -- A soft, mild, and nutritionally balanced diet should be consumed for 2–4 days (or longer if necessary) after your surgery. You should chew on the opposite side of where the implant was placed for 2 weeks (if possible). As the tissue around the implant heals, you can return to your normal eating routine.
Swelling-- Swelling from oral surgery is normal and reaches its maximum in 48 hours. Keeping the head elevated with 2 pillows when lying down can minimize facial swelling. Swelling can also be minimized by applying cold compresses to your face (30 minutes on, 30 minutes off) for the first 48 hours. After 48 hours, warm compresses will help reduce the swelling. These should be continued (30 minutes on, 30 minutes off) until the swelling has subsided.
Bleeding-- If you experience heavy bleeding, it usually means that the gauze pads are being clenched between your teeth rather than pressing on the surgical area. Try repositioning fresh pads so that pressure is directly on the surgical area, and your remaining teeth are kept apart slightly by the pad.
Rinsing-- Avoid rinsing the mouth for 24 hours after surgery. It may disturb the clot. If you have been given a prescription for chlorhexidine gluconate (C20), gently rinse twice daily, for 7–10 days.
Brushing-- If an implant protrudes through the gums, the metal must be kept clean. Use a cotton-tipped applicator or soft toothbrush and gently clean the implant and adjacent tooth surfaces. Be careful around the sutures.
Pain-- most oral surgery is accompanied by some degree of discomfort. If you do not have an allergy to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil) we recommend taking this prior to the local anaesthetic wearing off. More severe pain may require narcotic pain medication. Take the narcotic medication and 400mg (2 tablets / 200mg each) of Ibuprofen together every 4-6 hours as needed for pain. Once you feel like you can stop the narcotic, use Ibuprofen and Tylenol together as needed. All medication should NOT exceed the recommended dosage.
Antibiotics-- You may be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infections. If so, take all the medication as directed.
Infection-- Although antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent an infection, a wound infection may occur a day or several days after surgery. You may be suspicious of an infection if there is a sudden increase in swelling, throbbing pain, or a foul-tasting drainage from the wound. If you suspect infection, call the office as soon as possible.
Smoking and Alcohol --Tobacco and alcohol should be eliminated during the first 2 weeks after surgery.
