Instructions after gum surgery

From the day after your procedure, follow the brushing routine that we will have discussed with you.

Use a post-operative toothbrush, which has very soft bristles, together with an antiseptic gel.

Apply the gel to the surgical site without rubbing the area.

• Avoid very hot food and drinks.
• For the first two or three days after surgery, choose liquid, semi-liquid or very soft foods. Do not eat hard foods.
• Continue to eat soft foods for the following two weeks.
• Avoid spicy foods, as they may irritate the surgical site.
• Do not spit out any liquid or toothpaste in your mouth. Instead, let it run out gently. Avoid creating any pressure or tension in your mouth.

• Take all the medication we have prescribed and complete the full course.
• You will still be slightly numb when you leave after the procedure. When you get home, take paracetamol to provide pain relief as the anaesthetic wears off.
• Use cold packs on the day of your procedure and the following day. You can also eat ice cream.
• If possible, sleep with your head raised.

You will have a post-operative appointment seven to 15 days after your procedure.

We will use this appointment to remove your stitches. Some stitches are dissolvable, particularly the one on the palate, so it is normal for it to begin coming away on its own four or five days after the procedure.

Do not smoke for at least four weeks after your procedure. This means no cigarettes at all.

Avoid strenuous or high-intensity cardio exercise for at least one week.