What to Expect after Your Tennessee Gum Surgery

Recovery is a vital part of the success or your gum surgery. Your dentist in Clarksville has worked to provide you with optimal periodontal health and you have a part to play as well. Here is what you can expect after having your gum surgery:

Your doctor will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions and expectations. The level of pain and discomfort you feel will depend on the type and extent of the procedure. It can take anywhere from a couple days to a few weeks to fully recover from gum surgery, but you should be able to do normal activities the next day. The anesthetic will generally wear off in 6 to 8 hours. Over the counter pain medications, such as Tylenol or Advil, are normally sufficient after surgery. Occasionally, prescription pain killers are required. Take pain medication on schedule as directed by your doctor for maximum comfort.

The doctor may place a special periodontal dressing or putty over the gum-line to protect the area while it is healing. You will be instructed to eat soft foods and liquids only for about 2 weeks following the procedure to prevent trauma to the surgical site. If stitches are in place, they will either dissolve or be removed in a follow-up visit, depending on the type of stitches used.

Swelling, bleeding and bruising can all occur after surgery. Swelling can continue for a couple of days and is normal. Ice packs can be applied to the area around the mouth for a couple of days. Heat can be applied after 48 hours if needed and applied alternately with ice. A little bleeding is normal and will generally be controlled before you are discharged from the office Gauze can be applied with pressure to any areas continuing to bleed after surgery. light bruising occurs on some patients around the mouth, face and neck area after the surgery.

Quality dental hygiene is important in the weeks following surgery. Do not floss or brush the affected gum area until the area is completely healed, or directed to do so by your dentist. A special mouthwash may be prescribed to help control plaque buildup during your healing time. Antibiotics may also be prescribed and should be taken as directed.

If you or someone you know are struggling with your post-surgery recovery, contact a trusted and experienced dentist in Clarksville to discuss what can be done to help.