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Implant

Congratulations! You have just completed the first step of your implant treatment. In just three to four months, we will have you back in our office to complete your implant with your new CEREC crown. Your implant requires a clean environment. Proper care of your mouth will aid in the healing process and reduce the possibility of complications.

Things to expect after treatment:

  • Following the initial procedure, you may find it advisable to take it easy for a day or two.
  • Before the procedure began, you were given an anesthetic to ensure your comfort. This anesthetic typically leaves your lips, teeth and tongue feeling numb after the appointment. For this reason, you should avoid chewing for two hours following surgery, or until the numbness has completely worn off.
  • Discomfort after surgery is normal. An over-the-counter pain reliever may be sufficient. We can also give you a prescription for a stronger pain reliever if needed.
  • You can decrease pain and swelling by applying an ice pack (twenty minutes on, twenty minutes off) for the first six hours following the extraction. A frozen bag of peas work great as well!
  • Avoid touching the implant with your tongue or fingers, and do not drink liquids through a straw or spit vigorously.
  • Avoid smoking for 2 weeks. Smoking significantly affects the healing process.
  • Rinsing is very helpful in keeping your mouth clean. Warm salt water rinses should be started the day after surgery. (Dissolve one teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water. Gently swish the solution around the affected area, and spit carefully). Rinse gently several times a day and continue to do so for 10-14 days.
  • There is usually a minimal amount of bleeding following implant surgery. We suggest that you bite on the gauze packing in your mouth for at least 20-30 minutes. If you notice bleeding from the area after the first 30 minutes, place another gauze pad over the area. Some oozing may occur for a day or two after the surgery.
  • Do no attempt to floss, brush or water-pick in the area of surgery for the first two weeks.
  • Diet is very important during healing period. Eat soft, nutritious foods. Avoid hard or crunchy foods.

Notify our office if any of the following occurs:

  • Swelling, redness or discomfort in the area of the implant.