Post-Extraction Dental Bone Graft Care: Ensuring Optimal Healing
If you have undergone a dental bone graft to preserve your jawbone for potential implant replacement after tooth extraction, the following information is essential for a smooth recovery:
Granule Presence: Your dental bone graft consists of numerous particles, and you may notice small granules in your mouth during the initial days. There is no cause for alarm, as it is normal for some of these particles to dislodge from the graft site and enter your mouth.
Minimizing Dislodgement: To minimize the amount of particles becoming dislodged, follow these guidelines:
- Do not disturb or touch the wound.
- Avoid rinsing or spitting for 2 days to allow for blood clot formation and stabilization of the graft material.
- Refrain from applying pressure with your tongue or fingers to the grafted area during the initial healing phase, as the material may be movable.
- Avoid lifting or pulling on the lip to view the sutures, as it can cause damage to the wound site and tear the sutures.
- Refrain from smoking, as it can hinder the healing process.
Gentle Rinsing: After the second day, gentle rinsing is permitted, but avoid vigorous rinsing, as it may disturb some of the bone graft granules.
Denture or Flipper Adjustment: If a partial denture or flipper was placed in your mouth, you may need to visit your restorative dentist for adjustments and to learn proper removal and replacement techniques.
Our utmost priority is to ensure your recovery is smooth and comfortable. By adhering to these instructions, you can aid in your healing process. If you have any questions about your progress, please do not hesitate to call us. Our office hours are ideal for inquiries, but we also have a 24-hour answering service to contact a doctor after hours if necessary.
