A bone graft procedure is designed to restore structure in your jaw that was lost due to fractures, advanced tooth decay, gum disease or multiple past extractions. Sometimes Dr. Michael Shnayder will recommend the graft in advance of receiving dentures. It’s also a common procedure to create enough bone structure to anchor a dental implant. There are a few aftercare tips to keep in mind for speedy recovery after receiving the graft.
Tobacco use irritates healing gum tissues, increases recovery time and can also lead to infection. You should talk to your physician about a tobacco cessation program. If possible, you should try to choose a program that doesn’t call for using lozenges or nicotine gum as these can also irritate your gums while they are healing.
While you are recovering after bone graft surgery you will need to stick to a soft foods diet, eating things like applesauce, mashed potatoes and yogurt. Proper hydration is also important. Drink plenty of lukewarm liquids without using a straw, as the suction can harm the incisions or pull blood clots loose.
It’s natural for a little blood to weep from the incisions for a day or two bone graft surgery. When this happens, you can lightly pack the area with sterile gauze. When the bleeding stops, you can rinse your mouth gently with lukewarm salt water to remove blood clots and soothe the gums.
If you have questions about planning for your procedure or things you can do to help the recovery process, please call Dr. Michael Shnayder at 402-317-5657 to schedule an appointment.