Treatment & Aftercare

Normally, we find that patients only experience minor discomfort after implant placement. Any discomfort can be minimised by following the instructions below:-

• Very often there will be little or no pain after the anaesthetic has worn off, however it is important to continue to take a pain killer that also acts as an anti-inflammatory which will help reduce any swelling e.g. Ibuprofren (if not allergic).
• You may have some swelling and/or bruising following your treatment – this usually reaches a peak 2 to 3 days later. This is quite normal and both will subside naturally after a few days. Swelling can be reduced with ice packs (or a bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a towel. Hold on the cheek area for a maximum of 10 minutes at a time with 20 minutes break.
• Minor oozing may discolour your saliva for some hours after leaving the surgery, however if bleeding continues, identify the source and apply pressure using a gauze pad soaked in warm salty water for fifteen minutes. This may be repeated 2 to 3 times, but if bleeding continues contact the surgery.
• It is a good idea to sleep with an extra pillow to lift your head for the first 2-3 nights to reduce the amount of swelling that may occur.
• Smoking should be avoided for two weeks after the procedure as this can seriously affect the success of the implant placement.
• Avoid alcohol for two weeks after the implant placement as this can impair healing.
• For the first 24 hours avoid hot food and hot drinks as this may cause bleeding
• For the first 24 hours minimise your exertion. Rest, books and TV are best.
• The day after the surgery (not less than 24 hours) commence mouth rinsing with Corsodyl mouthwash (if not allergic) for 10 days.
• Please start any antibiotics prescribed by Dr Emmott, on the same day as per the instructions.
• After each meal, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
• Do not brush the area where the implants have been placed for up to a week.
• Try not to explore the area with your tongue or fingers as this may loosen the stitches.
• If you have any concerns please contact the surgery.