After Bone Grafting

Post Bone Graft Instructions

Your bone graft may be one solid piece of bone or many smaller particles of bone. You may find some small granules in your mouth for the first several days. Please do not be alarmed by this; it is not a sign of graft failure. You can minimize the amount of particles that become dislodged and promote healing by following a few simple steps.

• Any gauze that was placed over the surgical site should be kept in place with moderate biting pressure for 30 minutes. Since sutures are commonly used, and graft material aids in clotting, this may be enough. If bleeding persists you may need an additional session or two of pressure to achieve complete hemostasis.
• NSAID pain medication (ibuprofen/motrin/advil/aleve) is a mainstay of pain control after surgery. You can take 600 mg of ibuprofen/motrin every 6 hours. For additional pain control, or if you cannot take NSAID pain medication, you can take 1,000 mg of Acetaminophen/Tylenol every 8 hours. Opiate narcotics are also occasionally prescribed for pain control, these can be used in addition to NSAIDs and Tylenol, however be cognizant of the prescribed narcotic as it may contain Tylenol in it. You should not exceed more than 3,000 mg of Tylenol in 24 hours.
• Do NOT vigorously rinse, drink from a straw or spit for 3-5 days. Bone healing benefits from immobility and you should try to avoid manipulating any sutures or membranes as much as possible.
• You should not interrupt your normal oral hygiene routine, however do not brush over membranes or sutures. If you were prescribed a mouth wash, apply the mouth wash with a ‘tufted q-tip’ gently to the surgical site.
• Diet: It is important to avoid chewing on the graft site. Initial bone healing requires immobility for ideal results. Graft (particle or block) movement during healing may cause your body to ‘reject’ the graft.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24-48 hours following surgery as this can cause increased swelling, bleeding, and discomfort.
• You were likely prescribed an antibiotic after your graft. Please take it as directed unless you have an undesired reaction. If you have an adverse reaction please to the antibiotic please call our office.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call us at . After hours, you will reach our answering service and they will page the surgeon and have him call you back.

Questions About Your Pre or Post Surgery Instructions?