Bone Graft / Implant Surgery

Please read these instructions and follow the instructions carefully.

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Restrictions and Activity

• Avoid activities with any sucking or spitting movements for one month after surgery (eg. using straws or intimate kissing)
• Minimal physical activity for 48 hours. Avoid any vigorous activity for 2-3 weeks.
• Do not lift heavy objects for at least 2-3 weeks as directed.
• Avoid all contact sports or activities that put you at risk for getting hit in the face for at least 6weeks.
• Do not smoke cigarettes, e-cigarettes or marijuana as this affects healing.

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Pain/Swelling

• Starting before or immediately after the procedure, alternate Advil and Tylenol for pain management. Following the dosage limits on each bottle. (They are safe to take together).
• You will have had Dexamethasone prescribed. Please take them to completion
• You will have had antibiotics and prescribed. Please take them to completion as well.
• Continue taking Advil and Tylenol as needed following the surgery.
• Swelling is expected to peak at 48 hours and will likely be present for at least 2-3 weeks following surgery.

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Bleeding

• Minimal bleeding is expected after implant surgery, but there is a possibility that bleeding may continue for a few hours.
• Rest quietly with your head elevated. If bleeding continues, use gauze for an additional 30 minutes.
• Pink or blood-tinged saliva may be seen for 2-3 days following the surgery and does not indicate a problem.

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Diet

• Nausea may occur for the first few days after surgery. Drinking clear fluids (eg. water or ginger-ale) can help ease nausea. Taking medications with food will also help.
• If nausea persists, avoid narcotic medications. Use Ibuprofen and Tylenol together for management of any discomfort.
• Stay on a soft chew diet for at least 3 weeks following surgery; chewing on opposing side.

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Oral Hygiene

• Use the prescribed mouth rinse 1-2 times daily (after eating and before bedtime). You may also begin rinsing several times a day with warm salt water 24 hours after your surgery.
• The day after surgery, you can begin brushing your teeth – teeth next to any surgical area(s) should be brushed gently). Use only a manual toothbrush in this area.
• Non-dissolving stitches are commonly used. They will last up to 4-6 weeks, they will be removed
• at your scheduled post-op appointment.
• Please contact us immediately if you notice that tissues have “opened up” to the graft site and/or implant site.

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If at any time, a need arises, please feel free to contact the office.