After implant surgery
Medication:
Take antibiotics if prescribed.
Start using an antiseptic mouth rinse (chlorhexidine or Peridex™) the morning of the procedure and continue to use it for two weeks or until you see the doctor for a follow-up.
Unfortunately, most oral surgery is accompanied by some degree of discomfort. We recommend you take a combination of Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen. Recent studies on pain control are indicating that taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) together with acetaminophen (Tylenol®) has more significant post-operative pain relief than taking either drug alone.
Also, the ibuprofen and acetaminophen combination has significantly more pain relief than narcotic medications such as codeine, hydrocodone (Vicodin®, Norco®, Lortab®), and oxycodone (Percocet®, Percodan®).
We suggest you take 600mg of ibuprofen and 1000mg of acetaminophen at the same time. If this does not give you adequate pain relief you can alternate the 600mg of Ibuprofen with the prescribed pain medication, eliminating the acetaminophen. All medication should not exceed the recommended dosage. Discomfort should subside daily.
If you develop any rash, diarrhea, or other severe reaction because of any medicine that we have given you, stop taking it immediately and call the office. You may or may not be given a different prescription.
Diet:
Do not chew over the area that you had surgery until you see the doctor.
You should maintain a soft diet (smoothies, eggs, well-cooked pasta, etc.) for 1–2 weeks or until you see the doctor.
Other Instructions:
Use an ice pack on your face to help with swelling — 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours.
If you have stitches, they may dissolve on their own, or they may need to be removed. If you’re unsure which kind you have, feel free to give us a call.
Brushing and flossing are essential to keep your mouth clean, especially while it’s healing. Just be sure not to brush directly over the area that you had work on.