Recovering From Gum Reshaping

What Does Bone Graft Have To Do With Dental Implants TreatmentSometimes, even if your mouth is healthy, your gums aren’t quite what you’d like them to be. If you have excess gum tissue, your teeth may appear short, and give you a “gummy” smile.

Gum recession can also cause an uneven line, and make your teeth appear long, your smile “toothy.” If this is the case, you may be a good candidate for gum reshaping.

What Is Gum Reshaping?

Gum reshaping, or gum contouring, is a surgical procedure in which excess gum tissue is removed in order to create a smooth, even gum line. Reshaping can also be used to reduce the gum pockets created by gum disease.

It can be done in one of two ways. The first, traditional, method is by use of a scalpel. The second, more recent, way to perform the procedure is by use of a laser. Your dentist will decide which method is will provide you with the best results. No matter which one used, there is going to be some recovery time needed.

Pain

Pain is to be expected following either traditional or laser gum reshaping surgery, although it won’t last as long with a laser procedure. Pain can usually be managed with over the counter pain medications. Avoid aspirin containing medications, however, as they thin the blood and can lead to bleeding.

Healing can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, and you should take it easy, forgoing any strenuous exercise or activity until you are completely healed. This will help with any pain, as well as keep swelling and bleeding to a minimum.

Diet

Hard, sharp and crunchy foods can irritate your sensitive gum tissues. For this reason, it is recommended that you stick to a diet of soft foods, including soups, yogurt, and soft cooked vegetables. You should also avoid foods that are too hot, too cold, or that are spicy, as these can lead to pain and irritation.

Oral Hygiene

Taking care of your oral hygiene is a very important part of recovery. You should still continue to brush and floss, but you should take care. Any irritation to the gums can lead to bleeding and infection.

If your gums are uneven, either from excess gum tissue or gum recession, contact our office to see if a gum reshaping procedure is right for you.