Most dental implant surgery is outpatient — you arrive, have the procedure, and go home the same day. Outcomes are better when you arrive prepared. Here’s the complete checklist.

1-2 Weeks Before

Complete any required medical clearances
Review current medications with your dentist — especially blood thinners, bisphosphonates, immunosuppressants
If you are a smoker, stop or reduce smoking for at least 2 weeks before and 8 weeks after
Schedule time off work — 1-3 days for single implants, longer for full-arch cases
Arrange transportation home if you will have IV sedation or general anesthesia
Fill prescriptions for post-operative medications (antibiotics, analgesics, chlorhexidine rinse)

24 Hours Before

Eat a normal meal the day before
Avoid alcohol
Get a full night of sleep
Follow fasting instructions if sedation is planned (typically no food or drink for 6-8 hours before)

Day of Surgery

Take routine medications with a small sip of water unless instructed otherwise
Brush and rinse well before leaving home
Wear comfortable clothing — a short-sleeve or button-down shirt is ideal for IV access if sedated
No makeup, contact lenses (bring a case), or jewelry for sedation cases
Arrive 15-20 minutes early
Bring a driver if sedation is planned

Have at Home for Recovery

Ice packs or bags of frozen peas (for the first 24-48 hours)
Extra pillows for sleeping slightly elevated
Soft foods: yogurt, pureed soup, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, smoothies (no straw!), oatmeal, applesauce
Protein shakes or nutritional drinks for the first day or two
Over-the-counter ibuprofen and acetaminophen
A soft-bristle or extra-soft toothbrush
Chlorhexidine rinse (if prescribed)
Gauze squares

What to Avoid for 1 Week

Smoking and vaping
Straws (suction can disturb the clot)
Vigorous rinsing or spitting
Alcohol
Strenuous exercise for 48 hours
Hot foods and drinks for the first 24 hours
Hard, crunchy, or spicy foods
Touching the surgical site with tongue or fingers

When to Call

Contact us if you experience severe pain that worsens after day 3, persistent bleeding, signs of infection (pus, fever, expanding swelling), or any concern about healing. See our guide to what is normal vs. abnormal post-implant pain.

Request a consultation to discuss your case.

Serving Patients Across Greater Boston

The Face Dental Group welcomes patients from throughout Greater Boston:

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