Post-Implant Placement Instructions

We recommend that you follow your post-operative care instructions as closely as possible to help you recover quickly and avoid complications during the healing process after your implant placement.

Here are some of the guidelines you need to follow:

• Do not rinse your mouth for the rest of the day after your procedure.
• On the day following your procedure, start rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater every two to three hours. Use half a teaspoon of salt per eight ounces of water. Continue doing this for several days, then rinse after meals and at bedtime for two weeks.
• Take the prescribed medications, antibiotics, and mouth rinses as directed.
• Use mild pain relievers such as Tylenol, Advil, or ibuprofen to relieve discomfort.
• You may begin brushing your teeth the day after your procedure, but avoid the surgical site for several days.
• If a temporary crown was placed, do not bite down until given permission to do so.
• Do not wear your denture, partial denture, or any other oral appliance until given permission to do so.
• Swelling is expected. For the first 48 hours, apply ice or cold compresses to the side of your face every 15 minutes. After 48 hours, switch to heat and continue applying heat until the swelling goes down.
• Keep your lips moist with lip balm or Vaseline to prevent cracking.
• Do not operate machinery for at least 12 hours following your procedure.
• Do not smoke or use tobacco products, as they can cause your implants to fail.
• If the cover screw or healing abutment of your implant falls out, call our office immediately so we can replace it. Bring the loosened component with you to your appointment.
• If you use oral contraceptives and have been prescribed an antibiotic, use an alternate method of birth control until you have completed your course of antibiotics.

If you have any questions or concerns about your post-operative care, please contact our office to speak with a team member or schedule an appointment with Dr. Muir or Dr. Townsend.