For gum graft surgery, there are before and after steps to prepare for surgery and recover from it. Once you hear that you’re getting a gum graft, it’s time to start making arrangements. It’s good to prepare ahead and this is true for any surgery.
Gum Graft Preparation
According to Medical News Today, your main preparation prior to surgery is to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home afterward. You will receive pain medication to manage the discomfort that occurs following surgery, and you can leave the dentist’s office as soon as the surgery is complete. However, the medication makes it unsafe for you to drive. The majority of people are able to return to work the following day.
Recovery after Gum Graft Surgery
What actions can a patient take to help the recovery process?
- Take the antibiotics your dentist prescribes to help prevent infection
- Eat soft, cool foods such as pasta, eggs, yoghurt, soft cheese and ice cream
- Avoid eating foods that are difficult to chew
- Avoid strenuous exercise
- Do not floss or brush in the treatment area
- Use a special mouthwash to avoid plaque build up
- Avoid smoking
Every patient has a different pain threshold and this also affects how you feel after surgery. The type of surgical procedure can also affect the after-surgery experience. Typically patients with tissue removed from the roof of their mouth experience more pain than patients where the periodontist used tissue from a tissue bank.
The healing process is generally short, lasting only one or two weeks for most people. Some people take longer and prescription medications or over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help relieve pain and discomfort.
For a while, your teeth may feel more sensitive than usual to hot and cold foods. Desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash can help with this.
Be sure to make your follow-up appointment with the dentist to check your recovery progress. If necessary, the dentist may remove any remaining stitches.
Your gums should look different and feel firmer after the surgery.
Our dentists at Hutto Hippo Family Dentalcan answer your questions about gum graft surgery and other dental care.
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