Implants in San Antonio, TX

Please note that the following guidelines are general and may differ from the instructions given to you at your initial visit or after surgery. Please follow all instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

1) Rest:

After surgery, it is important to rest and keep your head elevated for the rest of the day. You may use a recliner or two pillows to achieve this.

2) Bleeding:

1. a) Minor oozing is common during the first 24 hours.
2. b) Bite down firmly on the gauze for 3 hours after surgery to control 97% of all oral bleeding.
3. c) Only change the gauze if it is fully saturated. If you drink anything during the first 3 hours, remove the gauze and replace it afterward.
4. d) If bleeding persists after 3 hours, place a moist tea bag over the extraction site and bite down continuously for another 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, contact our office immediately.
   
   

3) Swelling:

1. a) Swelling peaks between the 2nd and 4th day after surgery and may continue for up to 3 weeks.
2. b) Use ice packs on the outside of your face for 20 minutes at a time, with 20-minute breaks in between. Do not use ice after 24 hours. Use warm moist towels on your face for the next week.
   
   

4) Diet:

1. a) Do not chew until all numbness has resolved. Only drink cold fluids while still numb. Hot fluids will increase bleeding.
2. b) A soft diet is recommended for 1 to 2 weeks. This may include iced tea, casseroles, boiled vegetables and meats, Jell-O, pudding, yogurt, protein drinks (Ensure, Boost, Slim-Fast), and plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Do not skip meals.
3. c) Avoid all chips, nuts, and hard rice for 2 weeks, as these may injure the surgical site.
   
   

5) Oral Hygiene:

1. a) In some cases, a plastic dressing may be placed over the area to protect it. Do not play with the dressing. Small pieces of the dressing may come off, but leave the remaining dressing in place.
2. b) Brush your teeth regularly, being careful not to irritate the surgical site. You may start brushing the evening of surgery. If the implants are exposed (visible in the mouth), brush them gently.
3. c) If you are given Peridex oral rinse, use it as directed starting the day after surgery.
   
   

6) Medication:

Make sure to take all prescribed antibiotics and pain medications as directed.

7) AVOID THE FOLLOWING:

1. a) Straws
2. b) Smoking, which will delay healing and increase pain.
3. c) Hard foods that require extensive chewing.
4. d) Over-the-counter mouth rinses such as Scope, Listerine, or peroxide.
   
   

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office, even outside of business hours.