After Socket Bone Grafting

The following information applies when bone graft has been placed to help preserve or restore your jawbone in preparation for possible implant replacement of the missing tooth or teeth.

The bone that has been grafted is most commonly a combination freeze-dried bone, artificial synthetic bone and your own bone. Because of this you may have two post-surgical wounds: the donor site and the recipient site.

Antibiotics

Be sure to take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to help prevent infection. This may include a mouth rinse that has been prescribed to swish twice daily.

PAIN

This is normal following surgical procedures, and the most severe discomfort is usually within the first six (6) hours after the anesthetic wears off. It is our goal to minimize this discomfort. If you are able to, take Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS, such as Ibuprofen or Aleve). Good options include one of the following:

– Over the counter Aleve (Naproxen) –1-2 tablets every 12 hours

– Over the counter Advil (Ibuprofen 200mg) – up to 3 tablets every 6 hours

If able, use one of the above options for the first 3 days following surgery to be taken on a scheduled basis even if little or no pain is experienced. By “staying ahead” of the pain, less overall use of medicine is usually accomplished. If you find the Ibuprofen/Advil or Aleve inadequate, begin using 1-2 regular strength Tylenol (325 mg tablets each) every 6 hours in addition to the Ibuprofen/Advil or Aleve.

If you are unable to take NSAIDS, 1 Extra Strength Tylenol (500mg), or 1-2 Regular Strength Tylenol (325mg each) is often sufficient when started prior to the anesthetic wearing off, and then continued on a schedule every 6 hours.

Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean after surgery is essential to reduce the risk of infection. Start salt water rinses the day following your procedure. Use one-half teaspoon of salt dissolved in an 8 ounce glass of warm water and gently rinse with portions of the solution, taking five minutes to use the entire glassful. Repeat as often as you like, but at least four to five times daily and always after eating for the next five days.

Do not brush the teeth in the area of surgery for 48 hours. When brushing, be very gentle. When expectorating, also be gentle.

We may prescribe an antibiotic rinse (Periogard, Peridex) for certain procedures. This rinse should be used in the morning and at bedtime after routine mouth care. Do not eat or drink or rinse your mouth after using the medicated rinse. Using this rinse more than two times a day may cause staining of your teeth.

Smoking

Do not smoke for at least two weeks after surgery, if at all. As discussed at your consultation, smoking dramatically increases the risk of bone graft and sinus augmentation failure.

Wearing your Prosthesis or Nightguards

Partial dentures, flippers, or full dentures should not be used immediately after surgery until your post-operative appointment unless specifically instructed otherwise. Please contact the office if there is any question. If you have a temporary “flipper” to wear do not place it until the numbness in the area is gone. When it is placed it should not touch the gums in the area of the surgery. If it does, this can cause ulceration of the wound edges and breakdown of the suture margins. This can lead to loss of the graft. If you have questions about the fit of your flipper, partial or complete denture, do not wear it until your general dentist or our office can see you.