What to Expect After a Bone Grafting Procedure

If your dentist has deemed you eligible for dental implants, you may need to undergo a bone grafting. Continue reading to find out what to expect after this procedure. The procedure is done to give the jawbone additional strength to sustain the impending implant.

What can I expect after a bone grafting procedure?

During a bone grafting procedure, bone material will be removed from another area in the body (or donor bone tissue will be obtained) then transferred to the part of your jawbone that requires augmentation. The bone graft replaces any missing bone in the jaw, providing a stable foundation for the implants. Patients will need to wait several months for the transplanted bone to integrate enough to support the implant. Healing and recovery may take some time, but the outcome will be well worth the wait. The following are some of the things to expect after undergoing a dental bone grafting treatment:

Some pain and discomfort

It would be inaccurate to claim that the bone grafting procedure is painless. Patients should expect some soreness afterward. Most patients describe this phase as manageable, and the pain is comparable to the discomfort experienced following a tooth extraction. Most dentists will prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to help patients cope with the discomfort that follows the procedure. One might also get relief by putting an ice pack on the side of the face the procedure was performed.

Slight swelling

One might notice swelling in the region following the treatment. Applying an ice pack to the area at regular intervals for at least two to three days after treatment will help to reduce swelling. Icing helps to reduce blood inflow to the gum tissues, which is common following this procedure. Ice also helps to speed up the healing process.

Dietary changes

Patients may have to eat selectively for a few days following the procedure. Their meal options are mostly determined by the degree of bone grafting. The dental professional may recommend fluids, such as smoothies, juices, or soups, for certain individuals. Patients can eat oatmeal, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, pureed fruit, and pudding if the level of the bone transplant is not substantial. Patients must avoid consuming anything hard, crunchy, or sharp in both situations, such as fried chicken or nuts.

Sleeping position changes

Patients who have had a bone grafting procedure should sleep on their backs with their heads propped up on pillows. This aids in the circulation of blood to the treated side. Patients will be asked not to sleep on the side of the body where the procedure was done.

Reduction in physical activity

Patients must refrain from engaging in any strenuous physical activity for a few days following the operation. They will need to avoid participating in physically demanding activities like football, jogging, wrestling, or boxing. After a few days of recovery, a patient can typically resume their usual routine.

The bottom line

The dentist will provide additional assistance if patients do not notice significant improvements to their symptoms after a few days. Schedule an appointment with our dental office to learn more about the bone grafting procedure and why you might need it.

Request an appointment here: https://www.titandentalcare.com or call Titan Dental Care at (703) 745-3227 for an appointment in our Sterling office.

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