POST-OPERATIVE CARE AFTER IMPLANT SURGERY
Today
1.Continue biting with light pressure on the folded gauze for 30 minutes, and replace after 30 minutes when you return home. The gauze will be stained with blood when you remove it. That is not due to active bleeding, but rather the wicking action of the gauze. If bleeding persists after you remove the second gauze then place a moist tea bag over the surgical area, biting again with light pressure. If this proves unsuccessful please call Dr. Chehroudi.
2.Do not rinse out your mouth or spit today as that may cause more bleeding.
3.Avoid foods or activities that create suction in the mouth (No straws, rinsing, spitting, etc.)
4.Avoid hot foods and beverages (coffee, tea, soup). Let them cool before eating today. On the day of surgery most people find cool soft foods (ice cream, yogurt) soothing.
5.A soft diet is advisable the next few days. Avoid food with sharp edges such as chips, crackers, and toast for the next week.
6.Do Not Smoke for 24 hours.
7.Place the Ice pack on your cheek in the area of the surgery. Ice is most effective if applied for 20 minutes and then removed for 20 minutes in succession throughout the first day.
8.Start pain relievers BEFORE your anesthesia wears off. Unless otherwise specified, start with Ibuprofen 600 mg (three 200 mg tablets) every six hours for adults.
9.Take other medication as prescribed. If you have been given a prescription for antibiotics you will need to complete the entire course of medication that has been prescribed to minimize the chance for Infection.
10. Avoid drinking alcohol or driving if taking prescription pain medication.
Tomorrow
1.Once the bleeding has subsided, begin gentle rinsing with Chlorhexidine (Peridex) three times per day (after breakfast, lunch and before bedtime) as directed on the bottle.
2.You may additionally rinse with warm salt water (1/2 tsp. salt to 8 oz. glass of water) between Peridex rinses for the next two weeks.
3.Brush your teeth gently with a soft toothbrush but avoid the surgical area for the next two weeks.
4.Avoid vigorous exercise and excessive talking for the next 3 days.
Minor bruising after surgery is a normal response and is no cause for alarm. It will improve In 7 to 14 days.
Stiffness and Swelling
Some jaw muscle stiffness and swelling is common, especially after longer procedures. This is normal and will improve In 7-14 days. After the first day, moist heat application with a warm washcloth and Ibuprofen will help relieve some of these symptoms.
Stitches
Most stitches used will not dissolve on their own and must be removed at your follow-up appointment. If you did not book a follow up appointment, please call and book one for one week post appointment. Never pull at loose stitches or attempt to remove them yourself.
Pain
Most post-surgical pain improves by the third day. If pain or swelling is increasing on the fourth day or later after the surgery, call the office to speak with our staff or with Dr. Chehroudi. You may have to come in for a follow up visit ASAP.