Bone grafting is an essential procedure for patients preparing for dental implants or repairing bone loss due to gum disease, injury, or extractions. While the procedure is highly effective, the first few weeks of recovery are crucial to ensure the bone graft integrates successfully.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we guide our patients with comprehensive aftercare instructions. This blog focuses on care and feeding tips after oral bone grafting, helping you heal comfortably while protecting the grafted area.
Why Bone Graft Care Is Essential
Ensures successful integration of the graft material into your natural bone.
Reduces the risk of infection, graft displacement, or failure.
Promotes faster tissue and bone healing for a future dental implant or restored jaw structure.
Immediate Post-Graft Care Tips
?? Protect the Surgical Site
Avoid touching the graft site with your tongue, fingers, or any objects.
Do not pull on your lip or cheek to check the area.
?? Control Bleeding
Bite down gently on gauze for 3060 minutes after surgery.
Slight oozing for the first 24 hours is normal.
?? Manage Swelling
Use an ice pack (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 2448 hours.
Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
How to Eat After Bone Grafting
?? Stick to Soft, Nourishing Foods
Opt for:
Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Applesauce
Scrambled eggs
Soups (lukewarm)
Smoothies (without straws)
?? Avoid Chewing on the Graft Side
Chew only on the opposite side to prevent pressure on the healing area.
?? Hydrate Well
Drink plenty of water to support tissue hydration and healing.
Foods to Avoid
Crunchy foods: Chips, nuts, raw vegetables.
Sticky foods: Gum, caramel, or chewy candies.
Spicy or acidic foods: Can irritate the surgical site.
Hot beverages or soups: May increase swelling or disturb the blood clot.
Straws: The suction can dislodge the graft or blood clot.
Oral Hygiene Post-Bone Graft
?? Gentle Brushing
Brush the rest of your teeth as normal with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Avoid the graft area for the first 23 days, then brush gently around it as instructed.
?? Saltwater Rinse
Begin after 24 hours unless directed otherwise.
Mix ½ teaspoon salt in 1 cup of warm water and rinse gently 23 times daily.
?? No Vigorous Spitting or Rinsing
Gently let rinse water fall from your mouth rather than spitting forcefully.
Activity and Lifestyle Adjustments
Rest for the first 4872 hours.
No smoking or vaping for at least 72 hours, preferably longer.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 35 days to minimize swelling and bleeding.
Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth to prevent pressure on the graft site.
Common Sensations After Bone Grafting
Mild swelling and tenderness
Slight bruising on the cheek or jaw
A gritty or sandy feeling if tiny graft particles leak out temporarily (usually harmless)
Warning Signs to Watch For
Contact McLevin Dental immediately if you notice:
Persistent bleeding beyond 24 hours
Swelling that worsens after 34 days
Severe pain not relieved by medications
Fever, chills, or pus discharge (signs of infection)
Graft material visibly exposed or displaced
How Long Does Healing Take?
Soft tissue healing: Typically 710 days
Bone integration: Usually takes 36 months, depending on the graft size and location
Long-Term Care After Bone Grafting
Maintain excellent oral hygiene.
Follow up regularly with McLevin Dental to monitor graft success.
Prepare for the next step, such as dental implant placement, once the graft is fully integrated.
Trust McLevin Dental for Complete Bone Grafting Care
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we are dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care before, during, and after bone graft procedures. Our goal is to ensure that your graft heals properly, comfortably, and successfully.
If you have questions about your post-graft recovery, diet, or oral care, dont hesitate to reach out. Were here to guide you every step of the way toward a stronger, healthier smile.