Care after an implant
Care instructions after the dental implant
1. In the first few hours after the operation you must keep something cold on your cheek. This will significantly reduce the chances of inflammation (swelling) of the cheek. It is best to place some ice packs in a towel.
2. What is better after the operation, to stay upright or to lie down? If you lie down, this leads to an increase in blood pressure in the head. It is better to stay in an upright position in the first few hours after the operation. A walk in the evening will stimulate blood and lymphatic circulation. You should avoid exertion and physical exercise for a few days.
3. Avoid eating and drinking hot or very cold drinks in the first 2 days. Do not eat anything until the effect of the local anaesthetic has worn off, otherwise you will bite your cheek without feeling it. You may drink WATER.
4. You should eat soft foods (boiled vegetables, salads or fish) for 5-7 days, until the sutures are removed. Consuming sticky (starchy) or hard food products can cause inflammation of the area and reopening of the operation site through the tearing of the sutures.
5. Can coffee be bad for me after the operation? Hot coffee can cause post-operative bleeding or problems with healing. The same applies to black tea, carbonated drinks, alcohol and nicotine. These must be avoided in the first 5-7 days after the operation. You may drink coffee or tea at room temperature.
6. You must always chew on the side opposite the operation for as long as the wound is not completely healed. Always rinse your mouth with warm salt water, or saline solution, after each meal.
7. When can I brush my teeth again? You can resume tooth brushing from the very first day of the operation. Do not delay brushing even by a single day after the operation, in order to prevent the formation of bacterial plaque that could cause inflammation of the gums. The operated area must absolutely be cleaned too, but with a soft surgical or ultrasoft brush (do NOT use an electric brush or an oral irrigator in this area).
8. Will I be in pain once the effect of the anaesthetic wears off? Pain may appear depending on the number of implants inserted. The pain can be relieved with pain medication. On the first night, it would be advisable to sleep with your head slightly raised.
9. How sensitive is the wound? Will it still bleed after the suturing? The sensitivity will decrease from one day to the next. To prevent inflammation of the wound, avoid touching it with your tongue or fingers. It is normal for small traces of blood to appear after the operation. If the wound starts to bleed heavily after a few hours or days, you must contact the doctor without delay.
10. When will the sutures be removed? What happens after the sutures have been removed?
The sutures are removed 7-10 days after the insertion of the implant. The doctor decides this. The gum heals completely and a period of 2-6 months must be waited until the implant integrates. After the integration period, a gingival former is fitted, and then the final tooth is made.