After Bone Grafting
In addition to our general post operative instructions, after bone grafting there are other guidelines to follow:
-Your bone graft is made up of many particles. You may find small particles in your mouth for the first several days following surgery. Do not be alarmed by this. It is normal for some of the graft material to come out of the site.
-There also may be a temporary white covering over the bone graft to protect it. The covering will usually fall out with in first week.
-Do not vigorously rinse or spit for 3-5 days following the procedure. Rinse the mouth VERY GENTLY in the first 48 hours. Rinse with a ½ tsp of salt in 8 oz. of warm water after meals and before bed.
-Do not apply pressure with your tongue or fingers to the surgical site, as you may disrupt the healing process and displace the graft.
-Do not lift or pull the lip to look at the sutures. This can actually cause damage to the surgical site and tear out the sutures.
-Take all prescribed medication as directed.
-DO NOT SMOKE!! Smoking dries out the tissues, delays wound healing, and can lower the success of the graft.