Implant Surgery
Post-op Care for Implant Surgery
Immediate Postoperative Care
Care should be taken in the immediate postoperative period to minimize contact with the implant. You may want to limit foods to softer items and chew in an area away from the implant. It is best to leave the implant alone for 5 days, and then begin gently brushing the shiny metal healing cap with a soft toothbrush.
Bleeding
Bleeding, in most cases, is minimal with implant surgery. Suture material may last 4-6 weeks and should be left alone. You will be asked to return to the office for a 2-week follow-up appointment. Any sutures remaining at that time may be removed at the surgeon’s discretion. Do not pull on or cut the sutures yourself.
Medications
You may be placed on a postoperative course of antibiotic medication. It is important that you complete the entire course of medication as prescribed. You may also be prescribed an antibacterial mouth rinse, which should be used twice daily in the first two weeks following implant surgery.
Postoperative discomfort will be managed with an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory such as Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), and with a prescription narcotic pain medication to be taken as needed in the first days following surgery. As with any narcotic pain medication, do not drive a car, operate machinery or consume alcohol while using the drug.
Other Considerations
Your surgeon will notify you and your dentist when your implant is ready for restoration, typically 8 to 10 weeks following surgical placement.
Please contact us with any questions you may have.
Medallion Periodontics provides exceptional periodontal care to the Sarasota community.