After Your Implant Surgery

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.

Avoid straws and forceful spitting during early healing. Do not smoke or vape while the site heals. Follow the restrictions and timing we gave you at your visit.

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 prescribed medicines exactly as directed. Ask us or your pharmacist before adding another product or combining medicines. Contact us promptly if you think you are having a reaction.

Bruising may appear on the face or neck and usually fades gradually. Call if it is spreading rapidly or comes with increasing pain or swelling.

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.

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.

If stitches were placed, we will tell you whether they dissolve or need removal. Do not pull or cut them yourself.

Keep the post-op appointment scheduled by your care team so we can check the area.