Bone Graft

Pain, Discomfort, and Medications

• Some degree of discomfort and pain is normal as the anesthesia wears off. Take the prescribed pain medication and/or ibuprofen before the anesthesia wears off (please follow the dosage instructions). Pain medications may cause nausea and vomiting, so it is very important to eat before taking them.
• Take medications exactly as prescribed. It is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics.
• DO NOT TOUCH THE SURGICAL AREA. Avoid stretching your lips to view the surgery site and do not touch the site with your fingers or tongue, as this may delay healing.

Bleeding

• Expect minor bleeding (blood-tinged saliva). This bleeding may continue through the first day and the following day. For the first hour, maintain firm pressure on the surgical area by biting down on the cotton placed in your mouth at the clinic. If bleeding persists, change the cotton and repeat for 30 minutes. Biting on a moist tea bag can also help control persistent bleeding from the surgical site.

Swelling and Bruising

• Swelling usually develops within the first 12 to 24 hours after surgery and often peaks on the 2nd and 3rd day. Apply an ice pack (or frozen peas) wrapped in a towel for at least 20 minutes every hour for the first 24 to 48 hours. Anti-inflammatory medications such as Motrin or Advil can also help reduce swelling.
• For comfort and to minimize swelling, sleep or rest with your head elevated (use 2 or 3 pillows).
• Temporary skin discoloration (bruising) may occur, which is normal.

Physical Activity

Limit physical activity and strenuous exertion during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery as it may lead to discomfort and postoperative bleeding. Rest and pamper yourself!

Diet

• For the first 24 hours, limit your diet to cold liquid foods like milkshakes (e.g., Ensure or Boost).
• DO NOT SUCK AND DO NOT USE A STRAW for 1 week as this could dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
• After the first 24 hours, you may introduce soft and/or pureed foods. Examples include soups, grilled fish, cooked chicken, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, cooked vegetables, etc., based on your comfort. Avoid spicy foods, nuts, popcorn, chips, and any food with seeds for the first few days.

Oral Care and Dental Hygiene

The morning after the procedure, rinse your mouth thoroughly with the solution prescribed by your dentist. Repeat this rinse three times a day until pain or discomfort decreases. Resume brushing your teeth and regular oral hygiene as soon as possible, being very gentle around the surgical area.

Do not use the Water Pik® during the first week. DO NOT RINSE YOUR MOUTH AGGRESSIVELY AND DO NOT SPIT FORCEFULLY for 1 week to avoid dislodging the blood clot.

A bone graft contains many small particles. It is normal to find small granules in your mouth during the first few days. Do not worry if some of them come out of the graft site and into your mouth.

Sutures will be removed at your next appointment, between 10 and 20 days after your surgery.

For Patients Who Had a Sinus Lift

• Follow the same instructions as outlined above.
• For the two weeks following the procedure, avoid blowing your nose. If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open to avoid unnecessary pressure on the sinus areas.
• Do not fly and avoid immersing your head underwater (swimming or diving) for one week due to the pressure on the sinuses.

Please call us if you have any questions or concerns.

We wish you a speedy recovery!