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After Sinus Lift

You have had a sinus lift augmentation procedure in your upper jaw. Closely follow these instructions:

  • For the first two weeks (or longer depending on your surgeon’s instructions), DO NOT BLOW YOUR NOSE OR SNEEZE WHILE HOLDING YOUR NOSE CLOSED, under any circumstances. Sneeze with your mouth open to relieve pressure.
  • Do not drink with straws and do not spit.
  • Do not go scuba diving or fly in pressurized aircraft because this can increase sinus pressure.
  • If prescribed antihistamines, steroids, or decongestants to manage the sinus environment, take as directed.
  • Avoid anything that causes pressure in the nasal cavity. This includes “bearing down,” as when lifting heavy objects, blowing up balloons, playing musical instruments that require a blowing action, or any other activity that increases nasal or oral pressure.
  • Smoking must be stopped.
Antibiotics

Be sure to take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to help prevent infection, and take them until they’re finished.

Oral Hygiene

Do not rinse or spit on the day of your surgery unless directed because this can disturb the blood clot, open the wound, prolong bleeding, and slow healing. You should not have a significant amount of blood in your mouth. Saliva can be swallowed, even if slightly tinged with blood.

Keeping your mouth clean after surgery is essential to reduce the risk of infection. Start saltwater rinses the day after your procedure. Use 1/2 teaspoon of salt dissolved in an 8-ounce glass of warm water and gently rinse with portions of the solution. Repeat as often as you like, but do this at least four to five times a day and always after eating for the next five days.

Do not brush the teeth in the area of surgery for 24 hours. When brushing, be very gentle and only sweep the region. When spitting, also be gentle.

If you have a prescription for an antibiotic rinse, use in the morning and at bedtime after you’ve finished brushing and rinsing with saltwater. Do not eat or drink anything or rinse your mouth after using the medicated rinse. Using the rinse may cause staining, but it will easily be removed with your next dental cleaning.

Smoking

Do not smoke for at least two weeks after surgery, if at all. Smoking dramatically increases the risk that the bone graft and sinus augmentation will fail.

Post-Operative Problems or Complications

As with any procedure, unexpected postoperative problems or complications can occur. If you notice unusual symptoms, let us know so that we may assist you.

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