Guide to Post-implant Medications for Recovery

If you are considering a dental implant or have already received one, it’s essential to be aware of the common medications that are prescribed after the operation. With the help of your doctor, their instructions, and the right meds, you can experience a faster recovery post-surgery. Let’s take a closer look at post-implant medications, their side effects, and what not to take.   

Most Common Medications Prescribed after an Implant

The right post-implant medications determine whether you get infections, have extreme pain, or have a smooth experience after you replace the missing tooth. Here are some of the most common prescribed meds after an implant: 

Painkillers

Over-the-counter ones like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are recommended immediately after the surgery as they can reduce pain and swelling. Sometimes you might need to use mild opioids, which are prescribed with careful instructions due to more intense pain. It’s really important to control the pain in the first 72 hours after the surgery.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics like amoxicillin or clindamycin are prescribed to prevent or treat infections after you’ve gotten the implant. Some implant cases with a lower infection risk may not require antibiotics, while those with a higher risk of infection usually receive them before and after surgery. You can also use chlorhexidine mouth rinses to reduce the bacterial load in your mouth.

Anti-inflammatory Drugs

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) can manage pain, reduce inflammation, and help control swelling. Glucocorticoids, also known as corticosteroids, are alternatively used to manage post-operative inflammation. You can also combine some painkillers with caffeine or codeine to reduce the pain and swelling after the operation.

Note: NSAIDs like ibuprofen can alleviate pain and inflammation, but long-term use can disrupt osseointegration and bone healing. Try to monitor and limit them under your doctor’s supervision. 

Timing and Duration of Post-implant Medications

You can start taking painkillers as soon as the local anesthetic wears off, and take Ibuprofen or acetaminophen every 3 hours. Opioids are taken every 4 to 6 hours, usually for 2 to 3 days post-surgery. Take antibiotics immediately after surgery for 5 to 7 days. NSAIDs help reduce inflammation in the days immediately following surgery. Don’t forget to use Chlorhexidine mouth rinse starting 24 hours after surgery for 7 – 10 days.

Read more: Are Dental Implants Covered by Insurance in Canada?

Managing the Side Effects of Post-implant medications

If you have just had an implant and want to take post-implant medications, you’d better know about some of their side effects and how to manage them. The table below is a quick summary of different meds and their side effects: 

What Medications Not to Take after an Implant

To have a better success rate with this tooth replacement option, you should not take these medications as they can impair healing and affect the outcome. 

• Blood thinners (Anticoagulants) like warfarin, heparin, and aspirin can increase bleeding during and after the surgery. If you are already using them, try to adjust them under medical supervision.

• Bisphosphonates treat osteoporosis, but when used long-term, they can cause jawbone problems and delay healing, making the implant less likely to be successful.  

• Some antidepressants (SSRIs and Tricyclics) affect blood flow and bone healing, which can delay recovery. 

• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are used for Acid reflux and heartburn and reduce calcium absorption, but long-term use can affect bone healing and implant integration.

• Immunosuppressants increase the risk of infection and impair healing around the implant. 

Note: Try not to drink alcohol or smoke when you’re using antibiotics or pain medications, as it can increase the risk of implant failure and delay healing. 

Consulting Your Doctor About Post-implant Medications

If you want to have a smoother experience with your implant and minimize the risks, it’s advised to be transparent with your doctor about the following: 

• Disclose complete medical history: Tell your dentist about all the meds you’re taking (even over-the-counter meds and supplements), allergies, previous reactions to meds or dental materials, and chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

• Medication adjustments and interactions: Some meds like blood thinners may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped. Talk to your dentist to see if you need preventive antibiotics or alternative meds based on your health status.

• Expectations and instructions: Ask your doctor about the prescribed post-implant medications, like painkillers and antibiotics. Understand their timing, dosage, duration, and side effects, and don’t forget to adjust your lifestyle accordingly. 

• Monitoring and follow-up: Remember to contact your doctor if you encounter any unusual side effects or reactions, so they can adjust the medication as they see fit.

To Have a Better Experience with Implants

It’s essential to know when you should take what. Contact your doctor if something unusual happens and schedule follow-up visits as needed. Keep an eye on medication interactions, don’t smoke, and avoid drinking. If you already have an implant and want to repair it, at Lawrence Dental Centre, we offer affordable prices, provide a free consultation, and accept all major insurance plans.  

FAQ

Here are the most frequently asked questions:

Have you ever experienced side effects from post-implant medications? Share your story in the comments below. We’d love to hear your experience and tips for a smoother recovery!