Post-Op Block Graft – Lower Jaw (Ramus) to Upper or Lower Jaw
This procedure was done to build up your site for future implant placement — typically in 6 months. Bone from the hip (Iliac crest) or lower jaw (Ramus) is usually used.
Site Where the Bone Graft is Placed (Host)
No Pressure on the Site
One of the most critical aspects is to keep your temporary teeth from impinging on the bone graft site. If this occurs — it will cut off blood supply to the bone graft, break the wound down and it will fail. Typically at the end of the surgery I adjust your prosthesis to prevent this from happening. I also leave about 1.5 to 2.0 mm of extra space to account for post-operative swelling. The trouble occurs when your dentist adjusts the prosthesis, often adding material for cosmetic regions — and it places pressure on the site. This needs to be avoided.
Diet
Avoid abrasive foods, crusty breads, etc which could abrade the incisions for 3 weeks. It takes about 21 days for the gingiva to achieve some initial strength. This is why we take out the Vicryl sutures at a minimum of 21 days.
Antibiotics
There should be a 10 day course of antibiotics and Peridex mouth rinse.
Wound Breakdown
If the wound breaks down and you see bone graft material poking through – this would be very detrimental to the health of your bone graft and you should call our office immediately. This is true in the first few weeks and first few months. If it hasn’t broken down in 3 months — it rarely will.