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Managing Discomfort
It's normal to experience some discomfort following your surgical procedure. When the anesthetic wears off, follow the pain control regime that your clinician has explained to you. Taking your medications as prescribed—before pain becomes severe—can help maintain your comfort throughout recovery.
Medication Instructions
Antibiotics: If your clinician has prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as instructed and complete the entire course, even if you begin feeling better. This helps prevent infection and supports proper healing.
Managing Bleeding
Minor oozing may discolor your saliva for several hours after leaving our clinic—this is completely normal. However, if you notice continued bleeding with visible clots, please contact your surgeon immediately or go to your nearest A&E department.
Optimizing Your Sleep
For the first 2-3 nights, sleep with an extra pillow to elevate your head. This simple adjustment helps reduce swelling around the surgical site. During the first 24 hours, minimize physical exertion and ensure you get sufficient rest to support your body's natural healing process.
Reducing Swelling
Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs to the operated area for 20-30 minute intervals during the first 2 days after surgery. This helps reduce swelling and provides comfort. Important: Do not continue using ice packs after the initial 2-day period.
Lifestyle Considerations
Smoking: Ideally, smoking should be completely avoided during recovery. At your three-week review appointment, we can assess your healing progress by examining the color of your stitches.
Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for 3 weeks following surgery as it can impair healing and increase bleeding risk.
Hot Beverages: For the first 48 hours, avoid hot liquids. Stick to lukewarm drinks to prevent irritation of the surgical site.
Oral Hygiene Protocol
Salt Water Rinses: Beginning the day after surgery (if you're not allergic), rinse with lukewarm salt water (1 teaspoon to 1 glass of water):
- 6 times daily for the first 2 days
- 4 times daily for the following 3 weeks
Important: Hold the rinse in your mouth gently—do not vigorously swish, as this can damage your stitches.
After Meals: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water after each meal to keep the surgical area clean.
Dietary Guidelines
For the 8 weeks following your surgery, you must adhere to a soft food diet. During the first three days, avoid foods that are too hot.
While eating normally after mouth surgery can be challenging, maintaining proper nutrition is essential for recovery. Many patients will need to follow a soft diet for the first few months after complex implant surgery.
To give your implants the best chance of successful integration, avoid hard/crunchy foods and maintain a soft diet for the next 3-4 months.
Recommended Soft Foods:
- Porridge
- Cottage/Shepherd's Pie
- Jelly
- Scrambled Eggs
- Soup
- Mousse
- Mashed Banana
- Smoothies
- Chilli (mild, non-spicy)
- Macaroni Cheese
- Stew
- Noodles
- Avocados
- Mashed Potatoes/Vegetables
- Pasta Dishes
- Steamed Fish
- Omelette
- Yoghurt
- Rice Pudding
- Rice
- Pâté
- Cauliflower Cheese
- Trifle
- Ice Cream
- Cottage Cheese
Brushing Instructions
Use only the soft brush provided by our team and brush the prosthesis only—not your gums. Avoid exploring the surgical area with your tongue as this may loosen stitches. We will provide updated cleaning instructions at your 2-week review appointment.
Activity Restrictions
Driving and Machinery: After taking pre-medication, do not drive for 24 hours. Similarly, do not operate heavy machinery or sign any legal documents during this time.
Exercise: Avoid vigorous exercise until after your 2-week review appointment.
Follow-Up Care
Your healing process will be carefully monitored through scheduled follow-up appointments. These check-ups are crucial for ensuring your implants are integrating properly and your recovery is progressing as expected.
At your 2-week review, we'll assess your healing and provide updated instructions for ongoing care.
Our Commitment to Your Recovery
At New Life Teeth, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional care throughout your dental implant journey. Our team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, from your initial consultation through your complete recovery.
Should you have any questions or concerns during your recovery period, please don't hesitate to contact us. Your comfort and successful healing are our top priorities.
Remember, following these instructions carefully will help ensure the success of your dental implants and contribute to a smooth, comfortable recovery. We look forward to seeing your progress at your next appointment and helping you achieve the beautiful, functional smile you deserve.
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