DR. BRYAN MURRAY PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION Lethbridge Dental Surgical Suites 515- 5th Street South Lethbridge, AB T1J 2B9 Phone (403)327-7227 Toll free 1-800-552-8053 Cell (403)715-2740 POST OP INSTRUCTIONS FOR PATIENTS RECEIVING DENTAL IMPLANTS ALL ON 4 CASE It is essential for the early healing process that the following directions are observed during the first few weeks after surgery. If you are in doubt or there is any sign whatsoever of a disorder related to the healing of the implant area, you should contact our office immediately. Take all medications as directed. BLEEDING: Apply pressure to the surgical area by biting firmly on a gauze pack for @ 1 hour. Repeat if necessary. To help stop bleeding a dry tea bag can be used. Apply pressure instead of the gauze by using a dry tea bag on the surgical site. If bleeding does not stop by doing so, your surgeon should be contacted. SWELLING: If possible, an elevated headrest or extra pillow should be used during the first two nights after surgery to reduce swelling in the surgical area. Apply ice to affected area and continue to do so for the next 2 days (usually 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off cycles). Swelling reaches its maximum in 48 hours and warm compresses may be applied (warm wash cloth or heating pad). EATING: A liquid and/or soft food diet is followed until completion of treatment. Avoid chewing in the surgical area, the prosthesis is for healing and is temporary. Repairs are to be expected. Consumption of alcoholic beverages and smoking should be avoided during this time period. RINSING: No rinsing on the day of surgery. Starting the second day, rinse morning and night with the Chlorhexidine rinse (follow the instructions on the bottle). After 24 hours, rinse every 3-4 hours with warm salt water (1 tsp. salt in 1 cup warm water). Gentle toothbrush to clean can be done with care not to disturb the surgical area. Rinse thoroughly after eating. Other mouth rinses and disinfectants should not be used. SINUS PRECAUTIONS: Some nose bleeding may be expected, this is normal. No nose blowing for 2 weeks. No drinking through a straw for 2 weeks. If congested, an over the counter decongestant may be taken. STITCHES ARE DISSOLVEABLE: Stitches take about two weeks to dissolve however they may fall out after a few days. We will see you to remove the prosthesis and the sutures at this time. FOLLOWING APPOINTEMENTS: An appointment 24 – 48 hours following surgery to be checked by either the denturist or by Dr. Murray. First follow-up appointment is schedule 2 weeks after surgery to remove any sutures, check healing and to review post op care. If necessary, more checks appointments may be required or allow the area to heal pending Dr. Murray’s assessment (often 4-6 months) Before the case is restored, the area is always checked and an xray is taken. Arrangements can then be made to complete treatment and information forwarded to the restoring dentist/denturist. A follow up appointment is required to check the final prosthesis To comply with the implant warrantee a one year, two year, five year and ten year appointment will be required to check the health of the implants. Specific exam fee will apply. Regular hygiene appointments can be arranged through your own dentists or through our Able Dental Team.