All types of surgery, including bone grafting all are associated with some risks. Each individual and their conditions are unique and as there is no predictable way to determine the healing response or pain response of an individual.
I understand that bone grafting and barrier membrane procedures include inherent RISKS such as, but not limited to the following:
- Adverse reactions to the anaesthetic, drugs, medications
- Bleeding: It is best to periodically evaluate the surgical site for bleeding. Extra gauze will be provided. If bleeding continues, place a piece of moistened gauze directly over the surgical site and bite firmly with constant pressure for 30 minutes. Pressure is key to stopping the bleeding. This may need to be repeated several times. If bleeding remains uncontrolled, please call our office.
- Discomfort: Prescription pain medication is usually provided to ensure adequate relief of post- operative pain. Prescription pain medication should always be taken with food to reduce the risk of nausea. Please take medications as directed. This will help control breakthrough pain. If you are having difficulty staying comfortable or experience any abnormal side effects, please call our office.
- Nausea: Occasionally nausea may occur after receiving anaesthetic medication or while taking prescription pain medication. It is important to never take prescription pain medication on an empty stomach. Eating frequent meals and staying hydrated can significantly reduce the chance of nausea. Should nausea occur, drink small amounts of carbonated beverages, (Coke, 7-Up°, or Sprite°) as these helps to settle the stomach. If nausea persists, please contact our office.
- Swelling: Swelling will occur after surgery and will vary with each individual. Swelling is usually noticeable the morning after surgery and may increase over the first 72 hours. Swelling may be present for a week. Cold compresses (ice packs) can be used to limit the amount of swelling that can occur in the first 48 hours. Place a cold compress on the face over the surgical site. Alternate applications - 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. After 48 hours it is best to switch to warm compresses (heating pad or a warm washcloth). Warm compresses will help soothe tenderness and reduce the swelling. Place a warm compress over the swollen site. Alternate applications - 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Jaw stretching exercises and cheek massages will also help reduce swelling and limited jaw opening. If swelling or pain is excessive, please call our clinic.
- Bacterial Endocarditis: Because of normal existence of bacteria in the oral cavity, the tissues of the heart, as a result of reasons known or unknown, may be susceptible to bacterial infection transmitted through blood vessels, and Bacterial Endocarditis (an infection of the heart) could occur. It is my responsibility to inform the dentist of any heart problems known or suspected or of any artificial joints I may have.
- Accidental swallowing of foreign matter: Dental procedures sometimes require fine and small componentry. The upmost care will be taken to prevent complications such as this however; there is always a risk that the fine componentry can be accidentally swallowed during the procedure. If this occurs, there is a requirement to have appropriate x-rays and surgical treatment to have it removed.
- Rejection or Allergic Reaction: While uncommon, there's a possibility of graft rejection or allergic reactions to materials used in the graft. Your healthcare provider will discuss the choice of graft material and any potential sensitivities beforehand.
- Loss of all or part of the graft: Though rare, there's a slight risk that the graft may not successfully integrate with your existing bone. Despite meticulous surgery, particulate bone graft materials can migrate out of the surgery site and be lost. The membrane graft could get dislodged. This may necessitate additional grafting procedures to achieve the desired outcome.
- Injury to nerves: This would include injuries causing numbness to the lips, the tongue, any tissues of the mouth, and/or cheeks or face. This numbness, which could occur, may be of a temporary nature, lasting a few days, a few weeks, a few months, or could possibly be permanent. This could be the result of the surgical procedures or anaesthetic administration.
- Infection: With all surgical procedures, there is always a risk of infection. Bacteria may enter the surgery site during or after the procedure, leading to infection. Symptoms may include increasing pain, swelling, redness, discharge, and fever. Your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe antibiotics before or after the procedure to prevent or treat infection. It's essential to take the prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed. Although the chances of an infection is negligible, care must be taken to ensure the bone graft area is clean and post-operative instructions are followed.
- Sinus involvement: In some cases, the root tips of upper teeth lie in close proximity to the maxillary sinus. Occasionally, with extractions and/or grafting near the sinus, the sinus can become involved. If this happens, you will need to take special medications. Should sinus penetration occur, it may be necessary to later have the sinus surgically closed.
It is your responsibility to seek attention should any undue circumstances occur postoperatively, and you should diligently follow any pre-operative and post-operative instructions.