After dental implant placement, following post-care instructions is essential to ensure a smooth recovery and successful healing. At Olmos Park Family and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Amogh Bhalerao and Dr. Margot Metz are here to guide you through each step of recovery, offering support and expert care.

Immediate Aftercare

Immediately following your implant procedure, you may experience mild swelling, discomfort and minor bleeding. To manage these symptoms, we recommend biting down gently on the gauze provided to help control bleeding. If needed, replace the gauze every 30 to 45 minutes until bleeding lessens. Applying an ice pack near the implant area in short intervals can also help with swelling. Pain relief can be managed with any medications prescribed or recommended by our dentists. Avoid any actions that might disturb the surgical area, such as rinsing, spitting or touching the site, during the first 24 hours.

Dietary Recommendations

Dietary choices are crucial during the initial healing period. Stick to soft, nutrient-rich foods that require minimal chewing, such as soups, mashed vegetables and smoothies. Drinking plenty of water is also beneficial, but avoid straws as suction can affect the healing implant. We advise steering clear of hot beverages and alcohol in the first few days, as these can interfere with healing. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet supports your body’s natural healing processes.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is critical to preventing infection around the implant site. After 24 hours, you can gently rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended by our dentists. Brush the rest of your teeth as usual, but avoid the implant area to prevent irritation. In the days following, gentle brushing around the site can be resumed, but with caution. It is also essential to avoid smoking, as it can impede healing and affect the implant’s success.

Our team is dedicated to your comfort and healing. If you experience unexpected discomfort or have any questions about your dental care in San Antonio, Texas, please contact us at 210-824-2303. We are committed to ensuring that you feel supported and informed throughout the healing process.