Post-Surgery

Post-Surgery Instructions (Dental) Every patient reacts to and heals from surgery differently. Depending on the procedure, the healing process for dental surgery will take from one to two weeks for minor treatments and up to six to eight months for major restorations. Some level of discomfort should be expected as your mouth heals, including minor bleeding and swelling.

You should avoid strenuous exercise and activities that elevate your blood pressure for 24 hours after surgery, and use caution when eating solid foods until any numbness has completely worn away to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. Do not smoke or drink alcohol for 72 hours after your procedure.

Bleeding

  • Patients can expect minor bleeding for up to 24 hours after surgery, which can typically be stopped by applying pressure to the affected areas with a sterile gauze pad.
  • If bleeding persists or becomes profuse, contact our office immediately.

Pain Management

  • Most patients experience some level of discomfort or minor pain following a dental procedure. As a result, a pain medication, such as an anti-inflammatory and/or an antibiotic, may be prescribed as part of your treatment. These medications should be taken as prescribed by our staff and your pharmacist.
  • If no prescription is required, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen), can be very effective in treating mild pain or discomfort. These medications should be taken as directed.

Crowns

  • If your procedure involves the use of a temporary crown, take the necessary precautions (provided by our office) to not damage or dislodge it, including avoiding hard, crunchy or stickey  foods and the use of straws.
  • In the event your temporary crown comes off, please call our office to have it replaced.
  • It is sometimes necessary to adjust your bite after a day or two, which will require  a short office visit.

Dentures

  • Many patients experience sore spots as your gums adjust to the implant.
  • An appointment is typically scheduled for the day after your final fitting to clean and adjust the implant. You should not remove your dentures for the first 24 hours after placement.
  • If required, a second follow-up appointment will also be scheduled to remove any sutures from surgery. DO not remove them yourself. Some types of sutures dissolve on their own.
  • On the second day, you should remove your denture and clean it with mild dish soap. It should be soaked in water or mouthwash over night in the denture cup we provided you.
  • It will take time for you to get used to your new denture, and some fine tuning may be necessary, as your gums heal and adjust to the implant.
  • During this time, the denture may loosen from the gums. A denture adhesive or cream should be used to stabilize it, which can be purchased at most drug or grocery stores.
  • After four to six weeks, our office will schedule an appointment to check the fit, feel and look of the denture, and we can determine whether any enhancements are necessary.