Recovery After Bone Grafting Surgery Huntington Beach CA At Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we try to make sure that the bone grafting procedure is comfortable, but it is still a surgery that you must follow with appropriate post-operative care and attention. If you take our surgeons advice seriously, it can help aid in the success of the surgery and minimize pain, swelling, and complications. Right After the SurgeryWhile each case can be different, here are some general guidelines you might want to follow:
SuturesIf sutures were used during the surgery, they would be removed later on by the surgeon. They might also be left alone to dissolve on their own, which can take around six weeks. Diet After Bone Grafting SurgeryWhile food intake can reduce right after having surgery, it is important to keep eating to have less discomfort, greater strength, and faster healing. You shouldn’t use straws for drinking since the sucking motion can dislodge a bone graft. Drinking at least five to six glasses of water is important after IV sedation since it can prevent dehydration. Try having cold foods like milkshakes, pudding, yogurt, and applesauce since they can soothe the area. Crunchy snacks should be avoided until the gums are healed, but you can start having hot foods when you feel a little better. Swelling After Bone Grafting SurgerySwelling is a normal reaction by the body after receiving surgery and is a sign of repair. It can appear a day after the operation and peak around two to three days. You can use ice packs on the side of your face for two days since that can help. However, if the swelling continues beyond that, there is no need to panic. After 48 hours, you can use moist heat to reduce swelling. It should reduce as time passes, but if it starts to get worse, contact Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Oral HygieneMaintaining good oral hygiene can help speed up healing and prevent infections. This means gently brushing the surgical site but don’t use any water floss or electric brushes since they can cause harm during healing. You can use peridex or chlorhexidine mouthwash up to three times a day. Saltwater rinse is also helpful in speeding up healing. Physical ActivityFor two to three days after the surgery, you should not partake in any vigorous physical activity. This means avoiding running, lifting, or bending to reduce swelling. Keeping the head elevated to rest, and during sleep can also help. You can resume daily activity after two to three days but remember that if you are eating less than usual, it might leave you feeling weak. On the slight feeling of lightheadedness, you should stop any exercise at once. Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery has a team of well-trained dentists that can do your bone grafting surgery effectively and efficiently. This can reduce the chance of complications in the long run. Call Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at 657-384-2787 to schedule an appointment. |
