Bleeding
Mild bleeding or redness of the saliva is normal and expected for 24 hours. Apply steady, continuous pressure with a gauze pad locally. Bite down on the gauze for 30 minutes and repeat if you deem it necessary. This will likely control the bleeding. A small amount of blood discharge is normal for the first few days. Avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, rinsing, or taking aspirin, as these may disturb the clot, causing the bleeding to restart. In such a case, take a semi-upright position using two pillows. If the bleeding is not controlled, please contact the dental clinic immediately. Do not sleep with the gauze in your mouth as you may accidentally swallow it.
Swelling
Swelling is normal and expected after any surgical procedure. Apply ice to the area for the first 36 hours. Use an ice pack for 20 minutes, then remove it for the next 20 minutes, and repeat accordingly. Ice has little effect after the first 24 hours, but it can still provide relief. Swelling reaches its peak 48-72 hours postoperatively. Any difficulties in opening the mouth that may occur are expected to subside soon. The application of warm compresses 72 hours after surgery increases local circulation and helps reduce swelling. Warm compresses should not be used for more than 3 days. Swelling usually lasts about a week. To improve the swelling, take:
Algofren 600 mg 3 times a day for 4-5 days.
Infection
In healthy patients, the risk is extremely low. In case of infection, antibiotics and a mouthwash will be prescribed. If you experience an allergic reaction, please stop taking the medication immediately and contact the dental clinic.
Amoxil 500 mg, 3 times a day for 10 days.
Pain
Pain is completely expected and varies from patient to patient. It is usually at its peak 48-72 hours postoperatively and then decreases. In case of mild pain, you may take a pain reliever, except aspirin, as it prevents clot formation and may cause bleeding. Painkillers may cause dizziness. Please do not drive or undertake any important tasks while under their influence. They should not be taken on an empty stomach. If the pain is not relieved, please contact the dental clinic.
Panadol Extra / Depon, maximum 4 times a day for pain.
Nausea
It is expected postoperatively due to swallowing blood. A small amount of carbonated drinks every hour for the first 5-6 hours usually provides relief. Painkillers may cause nausea. In the case of bone grafts, strictly avoid carbonated beverages.
Diet
Consume plenty of fluids. Avoid hot drinks or foods. A light diet (rice, well-cooked vegetables, meat, crustless bread, mashed potatoes) is recommended on the day of the surgery and for 1 week. Soft foods that are high in vitamins and proteins can also be followed. Avoid hard foods that may irritate the area, sticky foods, or chewing gum. Continue with your regular diet as soon as possible. Foods such as milk, soups, soft cereals in broth, etc., are recommended. However, acidic foods such as tomatoes, orange juice, and citrus fruits should be avoided. Finally, alcohol is not recommended.
Oral Hygiene
Do not rinse your mouth vigorously for the first day after the surgery, as the clot may dissolve, causing bleeding. From the second day, use mouthwash twice a day. Warm salt water can also be used 4-5 times a day immediately after meals. Initially, brush the teeth around the surgical area gently and softly. After the first week, you can brush the healing screw with a cotton swab dipped in chlorhexidine twice a day. In general, avoid regular brushing or flossing around the implants for the first 2 weeks.
Activity
Keep any physical activity to a minimum immediately after the surgery, as it may cause bleeding. Consider that you are not fully nourished, which may further limit your ability to exercise.
Smoking
Avoid smoking 1 week before the procedure. Avoid or reduce it during the healing process, as it is a major irritant, increases the risk of infection, and delays healing. Keep your lips and the corners of your mouth moist with petroleum jelly if they have been injured after the surgery. If non-absorbable stitches have been used, they will be removed at the next follow-up appointment. Antibiotics and contraceptives can sometimes interact. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.