Anyone getting a bone graft teeth procedure knows how intimidating it can be to go through with it. However, with the right dental care clinic performing the procedure, you have nothing to worry about. Of course, getting the procedure done is only half the struggle as you still need to go through the dental bone graft recovery process. In this article, we will share some key points regarding post-operative care for anyone who gets bone graft surgery. If you are someone about to undergo this procedure, these tips will help you make your recovery process smooth and easy.
Effect of Anesthesia After Getting Tooth Extraction Bone Graft
Given the highly sensitive and invasive nature of any bone grafting surgery, anesthetic is administered to keep the patient pain free. However, as with any surgery, the effects of anesthesia after a bone graft for the implant can take some time to wear off. Keeping the patient safe during this time is extremely important as they could lose consciousness or have an accident if left unattended. As a patient, you must arrange for someone to be with you for at least the first 12 hours after your surgery. Ask them to help you with anything that requires movement, especially going to the bathroom.
Bleeding After Tooth Extraction and Bone Graft Recovery
Bleeding is expected during the procedure, and you will most likely find a gauze in your mouth covering the bone graft material and the operated area. Keep it firmly in place for at least an hour after the procedure to stop the bleeding. In some types of bone graft, the bleeding can go on for longer and in that case, you may need to change your gauze hourly for the next 2-3 hours. If you still see bleeding, then try putting a moist teabag over the area. You will still see blood-tinged saliva for the next couple of days but if the bleeding does not stop and is heavy, call your dentist after 24 hours.
Swelling After Bone Graft and Dental Implant Surgery Recovery
Having swollen gums in the operated area is quite common and the best thing to do immediately is to use ice packs. Use them after every 20 minutes and use alternatively if the procedure happened on both sides of your mouth. Do not overdo the icepack application as long exposure can damage the tissue in your mouth and possibly impact the bone graft material. Keep doing it for up to 24 hours maximum if the swelling does not reduce. In most cases, you should see the swelling subside after two days of getting a dental bone graft.
Patients with Retainers Getting Bone Graft and Dental Implant Surgery
A lot of people who need to get a bone graft after extraction could be wearing retainers on their teeth. Wearing them after surgery can be painful and cause severe discomfort for most patients. The recommendation for such a scenario is to avoid using retainers for at least a day after the surgery. For some patients, the wait could be up to 2 or 3 days, as it depends entirely on their comfort. You do not want to put yourself through unnecessary pain in your surgical site and a couple of days without your retainer will not do you any harm whatsoever.
Dietary Requirements for Tooth Extraction and Bone Graft Healing Process
There is no long-term restriction on the food you eat after tooth extraction and bone graft. However, some care would still be required during the initial days. For the first day at least, you should only stick to cool and soft food. Things like milkshakes and smoothies would be great, but you should not consume them using a straw. A spoon would be the right way to go in your recovery process after the grafted material has set in. You should also avoid consuming anything hot as the numbness from the anesthesia may lead to you burning yourself accidentally. Return to your normal diet slowly while checking your tolerance constantly.
FAQs for Oral Surgery and Dental Implants
- How is Bone Grafting performed?
Bone grafting involves exposing the damaged jawbone in your mouth and inserting another piece of bone which bonds with the existing bone to fix the jaw.
- What Are The Advantages Of Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting can fix fractured bones in your jaw, erase the need for further dental procedures, and open you to other procedures like dental implant surgery.
- Why Is The Implant Bone Graft Performed?
Bone graft for a dental implant is for addressing bone loss in your jaw. This is to realign your jawbone, address chronic pain, and make room for dental implants.
FAQ’s
How long does a bone graft take to heal?
The healing time for a bone graft can vary depending on various factors, such as the type of graft used, the body’s ability to heal, and the grafting place. A bone graft commonly takes 6 to 12 weeks to heal properly.
What to expect after a dental bone graft?
After a dental bone graft, expect some swelling and discomfort in the graft area for several days following the procedure. It is normal to have some bleeding up to 24 hours after the process. You may also experience some numbness in the area due to the anesthesia. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
How much does a bone graft cost?
A simple bone graft costs may vary depending on the number of implants needed and the location of the implant. Suppose grafting is performed using the patient’s bone. In that case, the patient will be hospitalized to extract the bone. An experienced orthopedic surgeon and anesthesiologist will perform the procedure, which may impact the bone graft cost.
Summing Up
Having a successful bone grafting procedure can help you in many ways for your oral health. With the tips provided above for different bone graft healing stages, you can easily make the entire process much more bearable and heal quickly. Of course, this is only possible if you choose a dentist that is experienced, qualified, and able to understand your specific needs. Patients in the Miami area can get in touch with Sunny Isles Dental for their bone grafting needs to get the best possible service and a fully guided recovery process.
