Healing After Gum Contouring
One of the best things a person can do to ensure that their gum contouring procedure goes smoothly and that they have as fast a recovery period as possible is to limit intense physical activity leading up to the procedure and get a good nights sleep. Doing so will ensure that you are in a calm, relaxed and rested state of mind while the procedure is being performed. Being in this state of mind will improve your experience throughout the procedure and ensure that your periodontist is able to perform the gum contouring procedure as safely and effectively as possible.
If you have anxiety about having your gum contouring procedure performed or are someone with dental phobia or who struggles to sit still for extended periods of time, you may want to ask your periodontist about dental sedation options. Dental sedation places patients in a more relaxed state of mind, and in some cases can cause them to forget the procedure even happened. In general, sedation is avoided if possible, as there are mild chances of complications that can occur when sedation is administered, however the likelihood of complications developing are very small, so talk to your periodontist about what options are available and best suited to your needs. If dental sedation is to be administered, you will likely be asked to not eat or drink for some period of time leading up to your procedure.
Following the Gum Contouring Procedure
While it is unlikely that you will experience any discomfort during the gum contouring procedure, once the anesthetic has worn off you may begin to feel some tenderness and pain where the procedure was performed. To reduce discomfort and speed up your recovery process, follow these aftercare instructions following your gum contouring procedure.
- Rest: Try to rest as much as possible following your gum contouring procedure. It is fine to resume normal, light activities but avoid strenuous or high physical impact activities for at least one week or longer if possible.
- Modified Diet: Following a soft food diet for the first few days after your procedure will help reduce discomfort and pain and will prevent irritation to the gums, which can slow the healing process down.
- Pain medication/Antibiotics: Typically, over-the-counter pain medication is sufficient in managing post-procedural pain, although narcotics may be prescribed for patients with extreme cases or with a low pain threshold. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to reduce your risk of developing an infection.
- Ice packs: Swelling can be managed with ice pack therapy, which involves holding the ice pack over the swollen area for fifteen to twenty-minute intervals. Swelling should go down after the first few days.
- Oral Hygiene: While brushing your teeth and gums, be gentle and use a soft bristle toothbrush when going over the area where the gum contouring has occurred. A saltwater rinse is also recommended for the first week or two following the procedure.
- Follow-up Appointment
If you follow these aftercare instructions closely, you should complete the healing process within 7-10 days. If you notice any side effects such as severe pain, excessive swelling or bleeding that does not stop, contact your periodontist to see if a follow-up appointment is necessary.