Instructions Following Bone Graft

• Some pain, bleeding, swelling, and seeping are normal following a bone graft procedure. Please do not try to view the site by pulling on your lip and do not probe the area with your tongue or fingers.
• Avoid forcefully rinsing or spitting or drinking through a straw. Biting on a gauze pad placed directly on the wound for 30 minutes will help reduce bleeding. Some bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours. If bleeding continues, please call our office.
• Please take all medications as prescribed, including decongestants, as necessary.
• Swelling and bruising may occur. Applying a cold compress to the face near the surgical site will help minimize swelling. If using an ice pack, please do not apply ice directly to your skin but place a cloth between the ice and your skin at all times. You may apply the cold compress for up to 20 minutes on and at least 20 minutes off as needed.
• It is important to keep your mouth clean after surgery to reduce the risk of infection and promote rapid healing. Start salt water rinses (one-half teaspoon of salt dissolved in an 8-ounce glass of water) the evening of surgery or the day following your procedure after each meal or four to five times daily.
• Brush your teeth gently with a soft manual toothbrush on the evening of your surgery or the first day following your procedure, and continue brushing at least twice a day.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Eat soft foods for the first several days after surgery. Advance to a regular diet as you become more comfortable. Please avoid chewing or creating pressure on the bone graft site. Please avoid drinking alcoholic beverages or smoking during the first one to two weeks following your surgery.
• All removable appliances, including partial dentures, flippers, and full dentures, must be checked for proper fit before they can be worn.

For Sinus Lift Procedures:

• Please refrain from blowing your nose for up to four weeks following your surgery. Do not hold your nose when sneezing. Avoid flying in pressured aircraft, scuba diving, bearing down when lifting heavy objects, blowing up balloons, playing musical instruments that require a blowing action, or any other activity that increases nasal or oral pressure for at least four weeks after surgery.
• If you experience severe or persistent sinus or nasal congestion please let us know.