If you are unhappy about how long or uneven your teeth look, you’re most likely a good candidate for soft tissue grafting. Also known as gum grafting, this procedure addresses these aesthetic concerns while also correcting functional issues such as sensitive or loose teeth and preventing decay and infection. Tissue grafting is a surgical procedure, so it’s important to understand the recovery process to ensure you’re healing properly. Dr. Anderson, our board-certified periodontist, discusses the best ways you can experience a healthy recovery after gum grafting.
- Start with a liquid diet. For the first few days after soft tissue surgery, your gums will need an optimal healing environment to jumpstart a healthy recovery. Stick to a vitamin-rich rotation of pureed soups, smoothies, or yogurt. Avoid eating until your meal has reached room temperature and refrain from using a straw. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Avoid brushing and flossing. Good oral hygiene is necessary, but after gum grafting, keep the toothbrush and floss away from the surgical site. Irritation or damage to the area can increase the risk of the gum graft failing. It’s often recommended that you put off brushing and flossing for at least a week after surgery after which you can gently use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Use ice packs as directed. Swelling will occur after soft tissue surgery and often lasts about a week. To help minimize this and associated discomfort, apply an ice pack to the area for 20 minutes on and 10 minutes off, and repeat this for 2-3 hours. Be sure to cover the ice pack with a thin towel and never directly apply the ice pack to your face.
- Take time to rest and relax. For the first three days after surgery, refrain from strenuous exercise or other physical activities. This can cause unnecessary swelling and bleeding at the surgical site that can compromise the healing of the gum graft. Take a few days to let your body recover from surgery, especially if you received sedation during the procedure.
- Stay in contact with our periodontist. At any time during your recovery from gum grafting you experience complications, contact our periodontist immediately. Problems with the surgical site will need to be addressed as soon as possible to be properly evaluated and treated.
Minimally-Invasive Treatment from the Expert
If you are receiving soft tissue grafting at Anderson Periodontal Wellness, you’ll experience minimally invasive treatment from our expert periodontist, Dr. Anderson. Using specialized techniques and a personalized approach, she can restore optimal health to your gum tissues and provide you with a beautiful, functional smile once again. Before leaving our office, we will provide the post-operative instructions you’ll need to experience a comfortable recovery after surgery.
Concerned About Your Recovery?
If you’re worried about healing after gum grafting or need more questions answered, don’t wait to contact Anderson Periodontal Wellness! Dr. Anderson is here to ensure you have a safe and comfortable treatment—and a healthy recovery. Schedule an appointment online or call our Bloomfield Hills, MI office at (248) 480-4910 today.
