Post-Op Instructions
After Your Implant Surgery
Your implant has been placed and the bone will now fuse to it over the coming months. Protecting the site in these first few days sets that process up for success.
Learn more about dental implants at MDRN Dental Studio →
1 The First Few Hours
Bite firmly on the gauze for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding. Some oozing is normal for the first day.
Keep your head slightly elevated when resting for the first 24 hours to help reduce swelling.
Do not use a straw, smoke, vape, or spit forcefully for at least 24 hours — these can disturb the surgical site.
2 Pain and Swelling
Some swelling and bruising are normal for 2–5 days, peaking around day 2 or 3. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours.
Take any prescribed pain medication or antibiotics exactly as directed. If antibiotics were prescribed, finish the full course.
Avoid aspirin — it can thin the blood and prolong any bleeding from the surgical site.
Some minor bruising on the face or neck can appear and is normal. It fades within a week.
3 Eating and Drinking
Stick to soft, cool foods for the first 2–3 days: yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies (with a spoon, not a straw), scrambled eggs, and soup that is not too hot.
Avoid chewing directly on the implant side for the first few weeks while the bone integrates with the implant.
Stay well hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
4 Keeping the Area Clean
After the first 24 hours, gently rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 oz of warm water) 3–4 times a day.
Brush the rest of your mouth normally, but avoid the surgical site for several days. We will show you how to clean around the area at your post-op visit.
If a prescription mouth rinse was provided, use it exactly as directed.
5 Sutures and Healing
If sutures were placed, they are usually resorbable and dissolve on their own in 1–2 weeks.
We will see you for a post-op check in about 2 weeks to confirm healing is on track.
6 The Months Ahead
The bone needs 3–4 months to fully integrate with your implant before the next step. During this time, the area should feel comfortable and look healthy.
We will see you periodically to monitor progress. Your custom crown will be placed on top of the implant once integration is complete — we will plan the timing together at your follow-up visits.
When to Call Us
Contact Us If You Experience Any of the Following
- Bleeding that continues heavily after 24 hours
- Severe pain that gets worse instead of better
- Swelling that worsens after day 3
- A fever
- The implant feels loose at any point
- Any reaction to medication, including rash, hives, or difficulty breathing
Need to Follow Up?
We're Here for You
Questions about your implant recovery or your next appointment? Call or book online at MDRN Dental Studio in McKinney, TX.
6451 W University Dr, Ste 300 · McKinney, TX 75071