Bone Graft Post-Operative Instructions

Bone Graft Post-Operative Care: What to Do After Your Surgery

Bone grafting in dentistry helps preserve the alveolar bone after tooth extraction. This technique maintains the height and width of the jawbone, creating a solid foundation for future dental implants. For a smooth and successful recovery, it’s essential to follow these post-operative care instructions.

Managing Bleeding

The bone graft acts as a plug to control bleeding. It’s normal to experience slight bleeding or pink-tinted saliva for the first 1-2 days after surgery. Don’t worry about swallowing small amounts of blood—it won’t harm you.

If bleeding becomes heavy:

• Place 1-2 pieces of wet gauze over the surgical site.
• Apply gentle pressure with your fingers on the cheek and palate sides, avoiding direct pressure on the bone graft area.
• If heavy bleeding persists, contact your dentist immediately or seek emergency care.

Protect the Surgical Area

To avoid disturbing the healing bone graft:

• Avoid spitting, drinking through straws, or vigorous rinsing for the first few days.
• Let liquids passively drain from your mouth over a sink.
• These precautions help the stitches and graft material stay in place, promoting proper healing.

Caring for Sutures

• Dissolvable Sutures: These will break down on their own within 1-2 weeks—no further action is required.
• Non-Dissolvable Sutures: Your dentist will schedule a follow-up visit to remove them.

Pain Management

Mild pain after bone graft surgery is normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage discomfort. If you don’t have any known allergies, a common recommendation is: 600 mg of ibuprofen (Advil) combined with 1000 mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 4-6 hours as needed. Always confirm the dosage with your dentist.

Reducing Swelling

Swelling may peak 48 hours after surgery. To minimize it, apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel to the cheek in short intervals (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off).

Temporary Numbness

Numbness from the local anesthetic can last 2-3 hours. During this time, avoid hot drinks and be mindful not to bite your lips, cheeks, or tongue.

Difficulty Opening Your Jaw

You may experience difficulty opening your jaw wide due to temporary muscle irritation caused by the local anesthetic. This is known as “myogenic trismus.” Learn more about managing myogenic trismus at home here.

Taking Antibiotics

If your dentist prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed until the prescription is finished. If you notice worsening symptoms like difficulty swallowing or breathing after 3 days, seek immediate medical attention.

Oral Hygiene Guidelines

• First 24 hours: No brushing, flossing, or rinsing.
• After 24 hours: Rinse gently with warm salt water once daily using the plastic syringe provided by your dentist. Brush and floss other teeth normally, but skip toothpaste for 48 hours to prevent particles from getting trapped in the surgical site.
• After 1 week: Gently clean the area around the bone graft to prevent infection.

Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking and alcohol can interfere with bone graft healing, leading to failure. It’s crucial to avoid both for at least 4 weeks.

Exercise Precautions

Avoid strenuous physical activity for the first few days to prevent increased bleeding and pain. Normal activities can usually resume after a few days of rest.

Diet Tips

• Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the surgery.
• Avoid overly hot or cold foods for 48 hours.
• Drink plenty of water and steer clear of spicy or acidic foods that may irritate the surgical site.
• Small seeds or nuts can get trapped in the socket—avoid them until fully healed.

Have Questions?

If you have any concerns or need more information about your bone graft recovery, don’t hesitate to contact us.