Ridge Augmentation Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for ridge augmentation: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
About Ridge Augmentation
- •Ridge augmentation rebuilds the jawbone that has been lost due to tooth loss, trauma, or disease
- •Bone graft material (your own bone, donor bone, or synthetic) fills in the deficient area
- •The ridge must heal completely before implants can be placed
Ridge Augmentation recovery, day by day
Surgical Site Protection
- Do NOT disturb the surgical area. Do not pull the lip to look at the site
- Bite on gauze as directed for 30-60 minutes
- Do NOT rinse, spit, or use a straw for 24 hours
- A membrane or barrier material may be placed over the graft. Do not touch it
Swelling & Pain
- Swelling is expected and peaks around days 2-3
- Apply ice 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first 48 hours
- Sleep with head elevated on 2-3 pillows
- Take pain medication as prescribed before numbness wears off
Diet
- Soft, cool foods only. Avoid the surgical side entirely
- No hot beverages or foods for 48 hours
- Adequate protein is important for bone healing
- Stay hydrated with cool or room temperature liquids
Healing Care
- Begin gentle warm salt water rinses after 24 hours (do not swish forcefully)
- Continue to avoid the surgical area when brushing
- Sutures may dissolve in 1-2 weeks or be removed at follow-up
- Avoid wearing a removable denture over the graft site unless cleared by your surgeon
Activity Restrictions
- No strenuous exercise for 1-2 weeks
- Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, or straining
- No smoking. Smoking significantly increases graft failure risk
Recovery Progress
- Swelling and discomfort should be resolving
- The graft area may feel firm or lumpy under the gum. This is normal
- Begin gentle brushing around (not on) the surgical site
- Follow up with your surgeon to monitor healing
Long-term Healing
- Full bone maturation takes 4-9 months
- Implant placement will be planned once the ridge has adequate volume
- Continue excellent oral hygiene
- Attend all follow-up appointments for imaging and assessment
Medications you may be given
Ibuprofen 600mg
Take 1 tablet 3 times daily with food
Amoxicillin 500mg
Take 1 capsule 3 times daily until finished
Always follow the exact directions your own provider gives you. This is general information, not a prescription.
When to call your provider or 911
- •Graft material visibly exposed or membrane coming loose
- •Heavy, uncontrolled bleeding after the first 24 hours
- •Fever over 101.5°F (38.6°C)
- •Severe, worsening pain after day 3-4
- •Pus or foul-smelling discharge from the surgical site
- •Sudden increase in swelling after initial improvement
- •Numbness that persists beyond 24 hours
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 7
Swelling resolves
Most swelling and discomfort resolving
- Day 18
Sutures removed
Sutures dissolve or are removed at follow-up
- Day 90
Bone maturation
Ridge volume assessed for implant readiness
For clinics
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