Gingival (Gum) Surgery Post Op Instructions

If you have just undergone gum surgery at 3Dental, please follow these instructions to ensure you heal correctly:

  • No brushing on graft site for 2 weeks or unless advised otherwise but to be sure to keep the surrounding teeth and areas clean.
  • No biting directly on graft site – chop food up and chew away from area. Best to stick to soft foods until the review appointment.
  • No hot food or drinks for 24 hours as this will cause bleeding.
  • Do not lift your lip up to look at the site for 2 weeks.
  • Keep your tongue away from the site for 2 weeks as this may disrupt or dislodge any stitches.
  • No smoking or drinking alcohol for 24 hours.
  • No strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
  • No heavy rinsing for 2 weeks – put mouthwash in, swirl very gently around mouth and let the liquid fall out. No spitting!
  • The day of surgery if you feel the need to rinse drink cold water only to refresh your mouth.
  • Expect discomfort for at least a week until graft and harvest site begins to heal. This can be managed by regular pain killers that you are suitable to take.
  • If you have been given antibiotics you must finish the course even if the pain and / or swelling has disappeared.