To help control bleeding, bite down firmly on gauze for 30 to 60 minutes. This pressure helps a clot form at the surgical site. After that time, remove the gauze. If bleeding continues, place a fresh piece of gauze over the area and repeat as needed until the bleeding slows or stops.

A small amount of oozing may continue for 24 to 48 hours. Blood can mix with saliva and make the bleeding look heavier than it really is. Some medications may also cause bleeding to last longer. Keep your head elevated with a towel over your pillows to help reduce bleeding and swelling. If swelling or bruising occurs, use an ice pack for 20 minutes at a time, then leave it off for 20 minutes during the first 24 hours.

If you wear a denture or partial, or if one was provided for you, our team will give you specific instructions on when and how to wear it during healing.

Please avoid smoking for several months to support the long-term success of your implant. Do not smoke or use any tobacco products for at least 72 hours after your procedure. Tobacco can slow healing and increase the risk of implant failure.

For the first 72 hours, do not:

  • Spit
  • Suck on the surgical site
  • Drink through a straw

In most cases, you will be given a rinse or instructed to use warm salt water while you heal. Begin rinsing the day after your implant placement. Rinse twice a day for one week. Do not rinse forcefully or spit. Instead, hold the rinse in your mouth, then let it fall out gently. After the first week, you may continue using warm salt water two to three times per day if needed. Mix 1/2 tablespoon of salt into a small glass of warm water. Do not brush the surgical area for one week or until our team tells you it is safe.

Avoid alcoholic beverages, carbonated drinks and hot drinks for the first 24 hours. Do not chew until the numbness has completely worn off. For the first 48 hours, chew on the opposite side of your mouth and choose soft foods. Avoid spicy or crunchy foods, such as chips, nuts and popcorn, for seven days.
Limit exercise, heavy lifting and activities that require bending for 48 hours.

Some discomfort for several days after surgery is normal. If you were prescribed pain medication, take it before the numbness wears off, then continue as directed or as needed. You may also use over-the-counter ibuprofen or Tylenol if you are medically able to take it. If antibiotics were prescribed, take them exactly as directed until they are gone.

Stitches may have been placed to help control bleeding and support healing. These stitches may dissolve on their own or may need to be removed at your follow-up visit.

Call us at 804-417-0050 for any questions for our dentists, Dr. Joseph Elrod and associates. Let us help you through your recovery for your dental care in Mechanicsville, Virginia, at Elrod & Dunham Dentistry.