Surgical Instructions

After Ridge Perservation - Bone Grafting

A specially prepared cadaver bone graft has been placed into the extraction site to help preserve your jawbone in preparation for implant replacement of the extracted tooth. Your bone graft is made up of many particles. You may find some small granules in your mouth during the first several days after surgery.

Do not be alarmed by these; it is normal to have some of them come out of the graft and into your mouth.  There are some things you can do to minimize the amount of particles that become dislodged and help promote an excellent graft result:

  • Do not disturb or touch the wound.
  • Do not apply pressure with your tongue or fingers to the grafted area, as the material is movable during the initial healing.
  • Do not smoke for at least two weeks after surgery.
  • Do not drink alcoholic beverages during the first week after surgery.
  • Avoid chewing or creating pressure on the graft site.

Gentle rinsing should be started on the evening of surgery or the first post-operative day. Use a warm salt water rinse (1/2 a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) at least 4 to 5 times a day. If Peridex (Chlorhexidine) oral rinse was prescribed, use it full strength beginning on the evening of surgery or the day after surgery.

Rinse a capful in the mouth for one minute then spit out twice a day after tooth brushing. Gentle tooth brushing with a soft bristle tooth brush and tooth paste and flossing should be started on the evening of surgery or the first post-operative day and continued at least twice a day. Please be very careful not to disturb the graft area. Remember, your mouth will heal faster and better if you maintain excellent oral hygiene. 

Please be sure to show your temporary appliance, flipper or partial denture to Dr. Schenkman; it must be checked for proper fit before it can be worn. The appliance often requires a minor adjustment in order to prevent pressure on the bone graft.  Pressure on the bone graft can result in graft failure. The temporary appliance should be worn in public when necessary for cosmetic purposes only, and removed in the privacy of your own home.

The extraction site with socket preservation graft will be evaluated for implant placement approximately 4 months after the graft has been placed. 

It is our desire that your recovery be as smooth and pleasant as possible. If you have questions about your progress please call the office at 508-699-0449.