All instructionsAfter surgery
After dental implant surgery
Caring for an implant site while it heals and integrates with the bone.
Protect the site
- Avoid disturbing the area with your tongue, fingers, or hard foods.
- If a healing cap or temporary is in place, chew away from it until we clear you.
- Do not smoke, since it slows healing and lowers the chance of successful integration.
Swelling and comfort
- Use an ice pack on the cheek for the first day to limit swelling.
- Take any prescribed or recommended medication as directed.
- Stay with soft foods and cool liquids for the first few days.
Keeping it clean
- Begin gentle warm salt-water rinses the day after surgery.
- Resume brushing your other teeth normally, staying gentle near the site.
- Keep all follow-up visits so we can confirm the implant is integrating well.
When to call us
- Swelling or discomfort worsens after the third day
- The healing cap or temporary feels loose or comes off
- You have a fever or persistent bleeding
If something does not feel right after your procedure, call our office. A member of our surgical team is available for urgent post-operative concerns, day or night. For a life-threatening emergency, such as difficulty breathing or uncontrolled bleeding, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
(336) 555-0142