Sinus Lift
After Sinus Lift
You have had a Sinus Lift Augmentation procedure in your upper jaw.
DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES. BLOW YOUR NOSE FOR THE NEXT TWO (2) WEEKS.
This may be longer if indicated. You may sniff all you like but NO BLOWING.
Do not blow your nose or sneeze while holding your nose closed. Sneeze with your mouth open to relieve pressure. Do not drink with straws and do not spit. Scuba diving and flying in pressurized aircraft may also increase sinus pressure and should be avoided. Antihistamines, steroids, or decongestants may be prescribed to manage the sinus environment. You may also be given a prescription for antibiotics. Please take these as directed. Anything that causes pressure in your nasal cavity must be avoided. Avoid “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.
Oral Hygiene
Do not rinse or spit on the day of your surgery unless directed. This tends to disturb the blood clot, open the wound, and can prolong bleeding and slow healing. You should not have a significant amount of blood in your mouth. Saliva can be swallowed, even if slightly blood-tinged. Keeping your mouth clean after surgery is essential to reduce the risk of infection. Start salt water rinses the day following your procedure. Use one-half 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 at least four to five times daily 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 expectorating, also be gentle.
Smoking
Do not smoke for at least two weeks after surgery, if at all. Smoking dramatically increases the risk of bone graft and sinus augmentation failure.
Antibiotics
Be sure to take the prescribed antibiotics as directed to help prevent infection. Take them to completion. We may prescribe an antibiotic rinse for certain procedures. This rinse should be used in the morning and at bedtime after routine mouth care. Do not eat or drink or rinse your mouth after using the medicated rinse. Using this rinse may cause staining, but it will easily be removed with your next dental cleaning.
Post-Operative Problems or Complications
As with any procedure, unexpected post-operative healing can occur. If you notice unusual symptoms, please let us know so that we may assist you.