AFTER CARE

Extraction/IMPLANT SURGERY

Bleeding

Bleeding after surgery may continue for several hours. The best way to stop bleeding is to:

  • Fold 2 pieces of damp gauze over the extraction site and gently bite for 30-60 minutes making sure pressure is being applied to the extraction site.
  • Keep your head elevated.
  • If bleeding continues, use gauze for an additional 30 minutes.

Swelling

Swelling is the body’s normal reaction to surgery and healing. The swelling will not become apparent until the day following surgery and will not reach its peak for 2-3 days. After this time, the swelling should decrease but may persist for 7-10 days.

Swelling may be minimized by:

  • Immediate use of ice packs
  • Apply the ice packs to the outside of the face 20 minutes on and then 20 minutes off while awake for the first 24 hours. After 48 hours, begin use of a warm, moist compress to the cheek.

NO SMOKING!

Smoking is to be avoided for the time specified by the doctor. Smoking increases the heat in the surgical site and significantly lowers the body’s ability to heal the site.

AVOID these after surgery: alcohol with post-operative medications, commercial mouth rinses and very hot fluids.

Gentle rinsing of the mouth should be started the day after surgery.

Frequent gentle rinsing with lukewarm salt water will aid the healing process (add one half teaspoon of salt to a 6oz glass of water). Avoid the use of a water-pik toothbrush.

Pain: A certain amount of pain must be expected with all types of surgery. An appropriate pain medication has been prescribed for you. Please take it according to the directions. It is advised that you do not drive while taking the pain prescription. However, if only Ibuprofen or Tylenol is needed, most people are able to drive without a problem

NO drinking through straws. The use of a straw creates negative pressure in your mouth and will tend to loosen the sutures.

INVISALIGN INSTRUCTIONS