If you have an excessive amount of gum tissue, it can make your teeth look disproportionately short and interfere with the overall appearance of your smile. This issue, known as a “gummy smile,” is fixable via a surgical procedure called esthetic gingival recontouring (also known as gum recontouring). It involves precise removal of the excess tissue to create a more appealing appearance. If you are thinking about undergoing this procedure, you may naturally wonder what the recovery is like. This blog post walks you through what you can expect.
The First Few Days
You will be numbed during your surgery, and you can expect the numbness to wear off within a few hours after the procedure is complete. As it does, you will likely experience soreness and tenderness in your gum tissues. Swelling is also normal.
You should rest for at least a full day after your procedure; heavy exercise can interfere with the healing process. For most people, over-the-counter pain medications are enough to manage any discomfort. To avoid irritation, eat soft and cool foods. Things like yogurt, smoothies, and applesauce are good choices. Do not use tobacco products or consume alcohol.
The First Week
After the first 24 – 48 hours, swelling and tenderness should gradually start to subside. Continue to eat a soft diet, and be gentle when you are brushing and flossing your teeth. You should entirely avoid flossing in the treated area for a week or so (or as long as your care provider instructs). Continue to avoid substances that might slow your recovery, such as alcohol and tobacco.
You can resume some physical activity after the initial few days. Light walking can be very good for you! However, continue to avoid vigorous workouts for at least 5 days or so.
Full Recovery
Most patients find that their gums feel fairly normal after 2 – 3 weeks. During this time, swelling should subside, and you will be able to see the final results of your procedure. Your dentist or periodontist may follow-up with you to see if you are happy with the final look, or if it will be necessary to schedule another gingival recontouring session in the future.
Look for Problems
Most people enjoy a smooth, complication-free recovery. However, you should still monitor your gums and call your provider if you notice:
- Bleeding that will not stop
- Severe, ongoing pain
- A high fever
- Pus or other signs of infection around the surgical sites
- Anything else that causes alarm or concern
Recovering from esthetic gingival recontouring is easier than you might expect! Your care team should provide detailed post-op instructions to help you through this important transitional period.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Andrew Barnett is a highly skilled periodontist (dentist who specializes in gum procedures). He proudly offers esthetic gingival recontouring, and he strives to perform each procedure with precision and great attention to detail. If you are ready to get rid of your gummy smile, our team would be pleased to consult with you. Contact Park Lane Periodontal & Dental Implant Group in Dallas at 214-691-2614.