Healing After Gum Contouring
The night before your gum contouring procedure, it is recommended that you avoid intense physical activity and get a good nights rest. By devoting this time to rest and relaxation, you are much more likely to enter your appointment in a calm state of mind, which will help ensure your periodontist can perform the procedure as quickly and accurately as possible.
Patients who have dental phobia and/or who struggle to sit for extended periods of time may consider dental sedation. There are a range of sedation options available (oral, Nitrous Oxide, and IV/IM), all of which are designed to put you in a more relaxed and calm state. If you are to have dental sedation administered, it may be necessary to avoid eating and drinking for 12 hours leading up to your procedure. For more information about steps you can take leading up to your gum contouring procedure to ensure a fast and painless process, please contact our office.
Healing Process After the Gum Contouring Procedure
You will likely not feel any discomfort during the gum contouring procedure due to the local anesthetic and dental sedation, however you may begin to feel mild pain or discomfort once the effects have worn off. To help alleviate this discomfort and enjoy a fast recovery, be sure to follow these and any additional aftercare instructions provided to you following your procedure.
- Pain medication/Antibiotics: Discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication or prescription pain medication. Patients who are at an increased risk of developing infections may also be prescribed antibiotic treatment. Take all medications as directed.
- Rest: While you can return to work or school shortly after your procedure, avoid intense physical activities such as high-impact sports for at least one week or longer. The more you rest and relax following your procedure, the faster your healing process will be.
- Ice packs: Place ice packs over any swollen areas for fifteen-minute intervals to help reduce swelling.
- Diet Modification: To help avoid discomfort and irritating your gums, follow a soft food diet following your gum contouring procedure.
- 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.
It is important to follow these aftercare instructions along with any additional instructions provided to you following your procedure to avoid developing complications and ensure a fast recovery process. While everyone has a different natural rate of healing, on average, patients will have fully healed from the gum contouring procedure within seven to ten days.
If you have any additional questions about gum contouring and what to expect from the healing process, would like to learn more about our clinic and services, or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (727) 877-0011 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!