Is Gum Contouring Painful?
Concern over the pain of a dental procedure is one of the leading reasons why people avoid seeking the care they need. Please know that at Coastal Jaw Surgery, we are committed to ensuring that your experience is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
On the day of your gum contouring procedure, we will administer a local anesthetic (or multiple if necessary) to ensure you do not experience any pain. Our clinic also offers oral sedatives, Nitrous Oxide, and IV sedation to ensure your comfort. You may experience a slight pinching sensation when the local anesthetic is administered, but this sensation will go away after a few seconds.
Once you are comfortable, we will begin removing and reshaping the gum tissue with a scalpel, laser, or combination of the two. If you experience even the slightest amount of discomfort once we begin this part of the gum contouring procedure, please let us know and we will either administer another local anesthetic or adjust your level of sedation. As soon as we are certain you are comfortable and not experiencing any discomfort, we will remove gingival tissue until the desired contour has been achieved, after which we will clean the area and place bandages to ensure your gums are protected.
Recovery Following the Gum Contouring Procedure
Although no discomfort or pain should be experienced during the gum contouring procedure, some mild pain and discomfort may develop once the effects of the anesthetic and sedation have worn off. Follow these steps to help alleviate your discomfort and speed up the healing process.
- Rest: While you can return to light activities shortly after your procedure, it is important to avoid highly physical activities such as high-impact sports for at least one week or longer. The more you are able to rest and relax following your procedure, the faster your healing process will be.
- Pain medication/Antibiotics: Discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication or prescription medication if necessary.
- Patients who are at an increased risk of developing infections may also be prescribed antibiotic treatment. Take all medications as directed.
- Oral Care: Use a s soft-bristle toothbrush while brushing your teeth and avoid brushing over the area of the gums that have been contoured.
- Diet Modification: To help avoid discomfort and irritating your gums, follow a soft food diet following your gum contouring procedure.
- Ice packs: Place ice packs over any swollen areas for fifteen-minute intervals to help reduce swelling.
For most patients, pain and discomfort will subside within the first few days following the gum contouring procedure, and the area should be completely healed within seven to ten days. If you continue to experience pain or discomfort that seems excessive, or if your recovery process seems to be delayed, contact our office to determine if a follow-up appointment is necessary.
If you have any additional questions about gum contouring and how you can anticipate and manage any pain associated with the procedure, or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (727) 496-8949 or fill out an online form.
At Coastal Jaw Surgery, we are committed to improving your oral health, the esthetic appearance of your smile, and your overall quality of life!