After Bone Grafting
Step-by-step recovery plan
First 30 minutes
- A blood clot forms in the surgical area.
- Keep the gauze pad in place for 20–30 minutes, then carefully remove it.
- Slight oozing of blood is acceptable.
First 2 hours
- Rest and avoid physical activity.
- While anesthesia is still active, do not eat or drink hot beverages.
First 24 hours
- Moderate pain and increasing swelling are possible.
- Do not touch the surgical area with your tongue or fingers.
- Do not rinse actively and do not use an irrigator.
Days 2–3
- Swelling and discomfort may reach their peak.
- Pain should gradually decrease.
- If antiseptic baths are prescribed, perform them gently.
Days 4–7
- Healing continues and sensations gradually subside.
- Gently brush your teeth, avoiding the surgical area.
- If sutures are present, follow the scheduled follow-up visits.
Days 7–14
- You may gradually return to your usual diet.
- Protect the graft area from pressure and trauma.
What you can and cannot do
| CAN | CANNOT |
|---|---|
| Eat soft, cool, or warm foods | Eat hot, spicy, or very hard foods |
| Drink water in small sips | Drink hot beverages during the first 24 hours |
| Brush teeth while avoiding the surgical area | Injure the area with a toothbrush or objects |
| Apply cold to the cheek through a cloth | Heat the cheek or use warming compresses |
| Rest and limit activity | Sauna, steam bath, sports, or heavy exertion for 3–5 days |
| Perform gentle antiseptic baths if prescribed | Rinse the mouth actively during the first 24 hours |
| Take medications as prescribed | Change doses or stop medications on your own |
Normal reactions after bone grafting
Swelling
Swelling usually increases for up to 2–3 days and then decreases.
Bruising on the cheek is possible and gradually resolves.
Pain
Moderate pain during the first day is normal.
Pain relief only according to the doctor’s instructions.
Tightness
A mild feeling of tissue tightness may last 3–7 days.
If discomfort increases, contact your doctor.
Body temperature
A slight increase in temperature up to 37.5 °C is possible during the first 1–2 days.
A temperature above 38 °C is a reason to contact a doctor.
When to seek urgent medical care
- bleeding does not stop for more than 3 hours
- pain increases after 2–3 days
- body temperature is above 38 °C
- a purulent odor or discharge appears
- swelling increases after 3 days or spreads
- the membrane or bone graft material becomes exposed
Frequently asked questions
After 2–3 hours, once the anesthesia has worn off. Food should be soft and not hot.
Yes, but carefully, avoiding the graft area. Use a soft toothbrush.
Usually after 3–5 days if there are no complications. Intense exercise is best postponed for about a week.
Usually on days 7–10 if the sutures are not resorbable. Confirm exact timing with your doctor.
Prescribed medications
Pain relievers (NSAIDs)
Take strictly according to the doctor’s instructions.
Do not combine medications without approval.
Antiseptic agents
Use with the specified frequency.
Perform rinses gently, without active movements.
Antibiotic
Not always required.
If prescribed, complete the full course.
Additional medications
Decongestants or antihistamines — only as recommended by the doctor.
