Sinus Lift Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
Once a tooth is lost, the jawbone will begin to deteriorate. This can be a problem when seeking dental implants for tooth restoration. Fortunately, the sinus lift procedure can restore the jawbone after deterioration, making dental implant treatment possible.
Because sinus lifts are performed in preparation for dental implant surgery, it’s beneficial to have an understanding of the recovery process. This sinus lift recovery timeline from Dr. Kellyn Hodges sheds some light on what our Philadelphia, PA, Bala Cynwyd, PA, and Bensalem, PA, patients may expect during recovery.
The First 48 Hours
During the first two hours of recovery, patients will need to keep clean gauze on their incision and apply firm pressure to help stop the bleeding. Patients should sit upright during this time to further help reduce bleeding.
Applying ice packs to the face can help ease discomfort and reduce swelling. Ice packs should be wrapped in a towel or cloth and applied to the face for about 15 minutes at a time, waiting about 30 to 40 minutes before applying to the face again.
Patients will be able to eat after surgery, but must stick to soft foods like smoothies and yogurt and avoid using a straw.
Week One
During the first week of recovery, patients should expect to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising. Over-the-counter pain medications are often recommended, but pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort.
After the second day of recovery, patients should gently rinse their mouths after eating to help keep the mouth clean. An alcohol-free mouthwash may also be used. When rinsing the mouth, patients should not spit, but instead let the water or mouthwash fall out of the mouth.
Patients should avoid exercising for the first week of recovery but are usually well enough to return to work within a few days provided that their job is not strenuous.
Additionally, patients should switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and use extra care to gently clean the teeth during recovery.
The Next Two to Four Weeks
Swelling, pain, and bruising should begin to subside by around the second week and is often resolved by the fourth week.
Although patients are usually feeling fully recovered by the fourth week, it can take several months for the jaw to fully heal. For this reason, patients will need to follow all post op instructions until cleared by their doctor.
During the first four weeks of recovery, patients should not blow their noses because this can dislodge the sinus graft.
Patients will need to eat soft foods for at least two weeks, but should avoid super crunchy or hard foods, like chips and nuts, until cleared by their doctor.
After Four Weeks
Patients typically feel recovered by the fourth week but need to keep in mind that it can take six months or longer for the jawbone to fully heal and fuse with the sinus graft.
During this time, it’s advisable not to smoke as smoking can interfere with the body’s ability to heal.
Once fully healed, a dental implant can be placed.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about the sinus lift procedure or to find out if it’s right for you, please call (610) 617-0700 to schedule a consultation or contact us online.
