The Recovery Process After a Gum Graft Procedure

Wanting to understand more about gum graft procedures for patients with receding gums? Smart. The more you understand about any dental procedures you need to undergo, the more likely you will experience a successful outcome. Since this particular procedure is one that supports your healthy gums, a successful recovery is important.

What exactly is a gum graft?

Finding out what a gum graft is and what it entails is a great idea, as this helps you understand what you can expect if you need to undergo this dental procedure. Gum grafting is a surgical process that allows a dental professional to take gum tissue from the roof of a patient's mouth and add it to areas that are receding. Patients are given a local anesthetic and the entire process is done in about 90 minutes. It is essential for patients to carefully follow any aftercare instructions given by their dental professional in order to expect a successful recovery.

The recovery process after a gum graft

The list below includes important information that every dental patient needs to know about the recovery process after undergoing a gum grafting procedure. The average amount of time it takes to heal after a gum grafting procedure is somewhere between 10 and 14 days.

The first few days

During the first few days after undergoing the procedure, patients can expect to experience some discomfort, tenderness and/or pain. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help minimize any discomfort or pain. Patients need to rest for at least 48 hours after undergoing the surgery, which means they should not participate in any physical activities.

Brushing and flossing

Patients need to avoid brushing or flossing around the gum grafting area until it is completely healed. This is an important part of the recovery process because it is important not to disturb the gum grafting area, otherwise, it may not heal correctly. Patients will be given a special mouthwash to use during the recovery process in order to help control any plaque buildup.

Consuming foods and drinks

After undergoing a gum grafting procedure, patients are encouraged to eat soft foods for at least seven days and preferably for up to 14 days. Eating soft foods is important because softer foods do not require a lot of chewing, which is easier on the mouth. It is also important for patients to avoid drinking or eating anything that is very cold or very hot, as this could cause irritation to the gum grafting area.

Ready to schedule your gum grafting procedure?

Do you currently have receding gums? Then a gum graft procedure may be in your near future. Now that you understand more about what is involved with a gum grafting procedure, including the recovery process, you have more information so you know what to expect. The only way you can know for sure whether or not you are in need of this dental procedure is by making an evaluation appointment with a dental professional. Contact us today to set up an appointment.

Are you considering a gum graft in the Lee's Summit area? Get more information at https://spectrumsurgical.net.

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