What You Should Expect in The Hours and Days Following Your Dental Implant Procedure

Receiving dental implants is a highly effective procedure that will not only restore the function of your smile but also improve its cosmetic aspects. When you are missing teeth, especially in the “smile zone,” you may find that you are hiding your smile from others. It may affect your self-confidence. A dental implant can resolve this by replacing the entire tooth from both above and below the gum line. Patients in the Quincy, Massachusetts, area may visit Dr. Stephen Matarazzo for their implant dentistry needs. 

Getting dental implants can be a lengthy process, requiring multiple appointments. While each patient will have unique needs, including additional dental work leading into their implant procedure, the result will be a beautiful smile that is completely functional and beautiful. You will want to follow all recommendations provided by your dentist leading into the procedure and also pay attention to what you should expect following your procedure.

Immediately Following Surgery

Following your dental implant procedure, you will likely feel groggy and a bit out of sorts. This experience will vary depending on the form of dental sedation your oral surgeon utilizes. You should expect minor bleeding, seeping, and swelling at the treatment site. Avoid poking or prodding the incision with your tongue or fingers. As your anesthesia wears off in the hours following surgery, you can expect some discomfort which can be handled with prescribed or over-the-counter painkillers. Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding pain management.

Dental Implants – Before / After Pictures

The First 24 hours

The first 24 hours following your procedure will play a massive role in the overall success and expediency of your healing process. You will want to avoid brushing around the surgical site during this time. However, you should still brush your other teeth. Avoid any spitting or rinsing, as this could cause any formed blood clots to come loose, resulting in more bleeding. Do not use a straw for drinking, as suction could cause the same. For the first 24 hours after surgery, you will want to stick to a diet that consists of soft foods or pure liquids, including broths or very thin soups. Avoid spicy foods, carbonated drinks, and alcohol or use of any form of tobacco products during this time.

The Days Following

Your face will likely reach peak swelling around the second or third day. You can use a cold compress or ice pack to minimize discomfort during this time. You can use it multiple times for about 20 minutes per round. At the 36-hour mark, you can also begin to utilize moist heat to reduce swelling. Rinse with warm salt water multiple times daily to soothe any discomfort. You should also have a follow-up appointment set with your doctor so that progress can be checked.

Signs of Infection

Even if you follow these instructions, things will not always go perfectly. It is essential to know the signs of infection following your procedure. While swelling, redness, and bruising are normal, they should dissipate around the four- or five-day mark. If it persists, call your doctor.

Other signs of infection could include severe pain, fever, a foul taste in your mouth, and any discharge of pus. If you experience any of these, call your doctor immediately.

If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment with Dr. Matarazzo, please call our office at (617) 405-3939.

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