After Your Procedure
Post-Operative Instructions.
Following these instructions closely will ensure your recovery is as comfortable and successful as possible. If you have any concerns at any point, please call our office. We are with you every step of the way.
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First 24–48 Hours After Surgery
- Sleep with a dark pillow or towel — blood in your saliva from surgery is normal and expected.
- Use ice packs the first 48 hours, 15–20 minute intervals, to minimize bruising and swelling.
- Take 800 mg of Tylenol® or Advil® every 8 hours to control pain and minimize swelling.
- No aggressive rinsing or swishing within the first 24 hours — allow proper healing to begin.
- On the second day, light brushing and rinsing is okay. Use a soft bristle toothbrush and be careful to avoid the tissue.
- Eat soft foods only: milkshakes, protein shakes, ice cream, mashed potatoes, yogurt. Drink plenty of fluids and rest.
- Take all prescriptions as prescribed. Do not drive while taking narcotics.
- No alcohol for at least 48 hours after surgery. No smoking for at least 2 weeks.
- Do not use a straw or suck on candy — this can promote dry sockets.
- If you use a CPAP machine, continue using it while sleeping or napping.
First Week After Surgery
- Pain and discomfort are completely normal. Swelling and bruising are expected on the third and fourth day.
- Post-op x-rays and bite adjustment will be done at our office on the next working day after surgery.
- Warm saltwater rinses 3–4 times a day to help promote healing.
Weeks 2–4 After Surgery
- Begin introducing more consistency in diet: eggs, pancakes, pasta, and other soft foods.
- Resume normal brushing and rinsing.
- Bones are reforming — you may notice pointy or sharp spots. Leave them alone; have Dr. Winterholler evaluate at your post-op exam.
- Sutures are removed 10–14 days after surgery. A 4-week follow-up appointment is required.
- Begin using your Waterpik® 4 weeks after surgery. Do not use it before this point.
- Swelling and discomfort should be gone by the fourth week.
Caring For Your W-4 Implant Solution
You will wear your provisional hybrid for 3–6 months. During this time, Dr. Winterholler will be assessing your healing, the functional bite, and the aesthetics of your new teeth. Keeping the W-4 Implant Solution clean is vital to the success of your implants.
- Brush using a soft bristle toothbrush 2–3 times a day — plaque can build up on the provisional appliance just like natural teeth.
- Use a Waterpik® to effectively clean between the gums and the W-4. Begin at 4 weeks post-surgery. We will advise you on proper use.
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Nutrition is key to proper healing.
Get plenty of protein and Vitamin C as you recover. - Allow at least 3 months of wearing your new teeth to fully adjust to your corrected bite. If your bite doesn't feel right, contact our office.
- We will make up to 2 W-4 Implant Solution sets during your provisional period. Additional changes beyond that incur charges of $500 per arch.
- We welcome your input on both the function and aesthetics of your teeth during this phase. It is our goal to make sure you are completely happy with your new smile.
Emergency contact
If you experience heavy or prolonged bleeding, severe pain, or any unusual symptoms, please contact our office immediately.
Scottsdale
(480) 767-8400
Payson
(928) 474-2200
Long-Term Care
Professional cleaning recommended every 3 months. Annual x-rays to monitor bone level and implant health.
