Mini Implant Post-Op Instructions
Mini-implants have just been placed in your mouth. The implants are located under the denture and usually cannot be seen unless the denture is removed. This type of implant has been selected for your particular situation because of the bone available to place an implant. The implants will heal for a period of four to five months depending upon your body’s healing properties and the type of bone you have until they are fully integrated. Every consideration must be given to keep the surgical site clean and free of food particles. The following are instructions for your care after surgery.
No Smoking, No Straws
Any type of suction can disturb the blood clot and loosen sutures. Smoking is to be avoided for 6 weeks since it increases the heat in the surgical area and significantly lowers the body’s ability to heal the site. Straws cannot be used for 3 days in most cases.
Protection of Blood Clot and Bleeding
It is normal to have an oozing of blood from the surgical site for up to two days after the procedure. Remember, a little bit of blood mixed with your saliva will look like a great deal of blood. You are not having a bleeding problem unless large clots are being produced.
Gentle rinsing
of the mouth should be started 24 hours after the surgery. You can rinse with salt water (1/2 tsp. of salt in 8 oz. warm water) 3 to 4 times a day. The use of commercial mouthwashes during the healing period is not recommended, as the high alcohol content tends to chemically burn the site.
Ultra soft brush
Please begin using the ultra-soft brush 24 hours after your surgery to cleanse and stimulate the tissue. Be VERY gentle around sutures. Clean the area at least 3 times a day.
Antibiotics
If you were prescribed antibiotics by Dr. Van Maren, take them as prescribed.
Discomfort
It is very normal to have discomfort after dental procedures. If medications have been given or prescribed, take them as instructed. Should you have any discomfort, take the prescribed medication. If it does not relieve the pain, please call the office for advice. With any narcotic, avoid all alcoholic beverages and it is advised to not drive while taking a pain prescription.
Swelling
Some swelling is to be expected and is not unusual. In most instances, swelling can be prevented or controlled. The peak of swelling is usually between 36 and 48 hours postoperatively. Apply the ice pack that has been given to you for a period of 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the day for the next 2 days with or without the presence of swelling. Discontinue the use of the ice pack after 48 hours. The application of ice to the outside of the face over the surgical area will minimize swelling. If after three days you still have inordinate swelling or pain, please call the office.
Diet
Following surgery it is best to restrict your diet to fluids and soft foods for the first day. A normal diet may then be resumed the following day. Soft food such as Jell-O, pudding, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and room-temperature soups are suggested. If you have difficulty chewing, try blending foods or use diet supplements such as Carnation Instant Breakfast and Ensure. Limit foods for the first 2 days to cold/room temperature items.
You should not remove your denture at night for the first 3 days following implant placement. This will prevent any swelling initiated by the surgical placement from forcing the soft tissue up, possibly interfering with the reseating of the denture on the implants. After 3 days you may sleep with or without your denture.
Implant follow up
We will see you for periodic checkups until the implant becomes stable and fused to the bone.
Do not hesitate to call our office if any questions arise. Our number is 361-857-6200.