A sinus lift treatment is performed to increase the height of bone available for your implant(s). It is imperative that you follow the instructions listed below carefully to maximize your healing and improve the long-term outcome of your dental implant(s).
Do NOT blow your nose for at least 7 days, as the pressure will delay or damage your sinus healing. If you have to sneeze, do NOT hold it back – sneeze out. Open your mouth and try to minimize the pressure in your nasal/sinus passages.
You may use nasal decongestants, such as over-the-counter Sudafed tablets or Afrin nasal spray, to keep your passages dry, especially if you have noticed continued drainage or feel the need to blow your nose.
Take the antibiotics prescribed by your doctor until they are finished, even if you feel fine. They protect the surgical site from infection. Also, 1 or 2 servings of yogurt or an acidophilus probiotic tablet are recommended daily to reduce gastrointestinal complications (like diarrhea).
You should begin taking pain medication prior to the local anesthetic wearing off. For moderate pain, ibuprofen (also known as Advil or Motrin) may be taken if you are not allergic or intolerant to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) bought over the counter comes in 200 mg tablets: 3 tablets may be taken every six hours as needed for pain (no more than 3200 mg/24 hour period). If you are asthmatic, do not take ibuprofen unless you have tolerated it in the past. If your pain is not controlled by the ibuprofen alone, take your prescribed narcotic in addition. Ibuprofen and your prescribed narcotic can be taken together. For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed (please note if this prescription has Tylenol [APAP] in it, do not take any other Tylenol/acetaminophen containing medications). Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. This may include patients with liver or kidney disease. Be certain to take your pain medicines with food, this will help prevent nausea. Remember, narcotic pain medicine will impair your judgment and reflexes.
Do not drink through a straw. This creates suction, which may damage a healing clot. You may drink out of a cup, bowl, or use a spoon.
Do not smoke because smoking reduces the blood flow, contaminates the healing wound, and frequently leads to infections.