Dental bone grafting is a procedure that dental professionals use to build up the bone in the jaw. Typically, patients pursue dental bone grafting in preparation for dental implant surgery or to repair bone damaged by trauma or disease. It involves taking bone from one part of the body, a donor, or a synthetic source and placing it in areas where the jawbone needs to be fortified.
Are you currently living with low jawbone density? Let Dr. Chris L. Tye and his team at Texas Oral Surgery Specialists in Colleyville, TX, help. Patients can request appointments with our oral surgeon by calling (817) 552-3223 now.
The success of dental bone grafting depends on many factors, including how patients prepare for treatment and how they recover afterward. In this article, we will discuss how to prepare for and recover from dental bone grafting for optimal success.
Preparing for Dental Bone Grafting
Before undergoing dental bone grafting, it is essential to prepare both mentally and physically. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for the procedure:
Consult With Your Dentist or Surgeon
Schedule a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon to discuss:
- Your medical history
- Your current medications
- Any allergies you may have
- The procedure in greater detail
- Your immediate and future concerns
Follow All Preoperative Instructions
Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including:
- Fasting before the surgery
- Stopping certain medications (like blood thinners)
- Taking certain medications (like an antibiotic for patients with artificial joints)
- Conducting thorough oral hygiene (flossing, brushing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash)
Schedule a Ride Home
Dental bone grafting requires anesthesia. This means that patients cannot drive themselves home after the procedure. We recommend asking a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after your appointment.
Stock Up on Softer Foods
After the surgery, patients need to eat softer foods for a few days. So, stock up on foods like:
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Soups and stews
- Protein and meal-replacement shakes
Recovering From Dental Bone Grafting
After the procedure, patients must closely follow the postoperative care instructions given by their dentist or oral surgeon to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. Here are some tips to help you recover from dental bone grafting:
Take Painkillers as Directed
Your provider may prescribe pain medication to help manage the pain after the procedure. Take the medication as directed, and do not exceed the recommended dose.
Apply Ice Packs
Our oral surgeon recommends applying ice packs to the affected area for the first 48 hours after the surgery. This will help reduce swelling and pain.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol can delay the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Patients must avoid smoking and alcohol for at least two weeks after the surgery.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene, especially after oral surgery. So, we recommend:
- Gently brushing twice a day
- Carefully flossing once a day
- Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash
Attend All Follow-Up Appointments
Dentists and oral surgeons schedule follow-up appointments to monitor patients’ healing and to remove any sutures. Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments for best results.
Dental Bone Grafting In Colleyville, TX
Do you need to rebuild weak bone tissue? Dental bone grafting with our oral surgeon in Colleyville, TX, can help. Contact Oral Surgery Specialists of Texas online or at (817) 552-3223 to get started.Oral surgeon in Colleyville, TX, explains how to expertly prepare for and recover from dental bone grafting. Call (817) 552-3223 for more!
