Aftercare
Placement of dental implants
Here are some instructions and advice for home care to minimize and shorten any discomfort following your surgery. Please read this guide thoroughly and keep it for reference!
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When implants are placed, the procedure can involve a 1-Phase or 2-Phase treatment: In a 1-Phase treatment, the implants protrude through the gum into the mouth. In a 2-Phase treatment, the implants are buried beneath the gum tissue. In a later stage, the implants are uncovered, and healing abutments are attached, which protrude through the gum. Your dentist can then proceed to create a crown, bridge, or attachment system on the implants.
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The implants will need to integrate with the bone over the coming weeks and months. It is important to avoid any pressure on the implants. Preferably, chew soft foods and use the opposite side of your mouth during the initial period.
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The sutures placed during the procedure will be removed during a follow-up appointment, approximately 2-3 weeks after the surgery.
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You have been given a prescription for the pharmacy, which includes a disinfecting mouthwash, pain reliever, and antibiotics.
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Do not rinse the wound on the first day to prevent bleeding.
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Generally, postoperative pain is minimal. However, swelling or bruising may occur, peaking 2-3 days after the surgery and then resolving on its own. You can reduce swelling by applying a “cold pack.”
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Existing dentures can generally be placed back in the mouth immediately after the procedure. However, the dentures must not press on the wound or implants! Pressure on the implants can interfere with the integration process with the bone.
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The integration process of the implants into the jawbone (osseointegration) will be monitored several times after placement. Toward the end of the integration period, an X-ray will be taken to ensure everything has progressed well. If all is satisfactory, you will be referred back to your dentist for further treatment.
What to do in case of problems and/or complications?
Bleeding
Some bleeding for a few days after the procedure is normal, often appearing as saliva mixed with a small amount of blood. However, there should not be continuous bright red bleeding from the wound. If this occurs, it is considered postoperative bleeding. In such a case:
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Rinse the wound thoroughly to remove any visible clots from the mouth.
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Bite on a clean piece of gauze for at least 30 minutes.
In most cases, this will stop the bleeding. If the bleeding persists, repeat the process. If you have followed these steps and the bleeding does not stop, please contact us.
Loose healing abutments
The small cover caps placed on the implants, which are visible in the mouth, may sometimes come loose. If this happens, keep the caps safe and schedule a follow-up appointment at our clinic on the next working day to have them reattached.
You can reach us at the following phone number: (076) 205 0608
NB:
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Outside office hours you will be transferred to the emergency number of the dental surgeon on duty.
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The emergency number is only intended for serious complaints, not for complaints that can wait until a normal working day.
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The emergency line is only for patients who have undergone treatment with us within 2 weeks.
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As a patient, you must contact us yourself and not have someone call for you.
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The costs of a telephone consultation (€69.48) will be charged for calling the emergency number.
