Gum Grafting Recovery
The recovery process after a gum grafting procedure varies from patient to patient and largely depends on the type of graft being performed. If you are using donor tissue for your graft, you should experience minimal pain and a shorter recovery time. However, if the grafting material is taken from the roof of your mouth, you may feel slight to moderate discomfort during and after the procedure, and the recovery will take longer.
The severity of your gum recession will also influence the length of your recovery. If you have significant gum recession and are using your own tissue for the graft, the surgery will be more involved compared to patients with less severe gum recession or those using donor grafting material.
For those undergoing a connective tissue or free gingival graft, tenderness at the donor site may be felt for 7 to 10 days following the procedure whereas patients who are receiving donor tissue may experience discomfort for only 2 to 4 days. Most individuals can return to their usual routines, including work, within a day or two of the procedure, although it is recommended that you refrain from strenuous activities for at least one to two weeks.
Concerns about discomfort during the procedure and the recovery process may prevent some patients from scheduling their gum grafting appointment. If you are hesitant or worried about the pain involved, whether during or after the procedure, reach out to your dentist or periodontist. They can discuss options for local anesthesia or dental sedation during the procedure, as well as pain-relieving medications that may be prescribed afterward.
Aftercare During the Recovery Process
Once the anesthetic and/or sedation wears off, you may start to feel discomfort or pain. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help manage this discomfort. One common method for alleviating post-procedural pain after a gum grafting procedure is to take over-the-counter or prescription pain-relief medication. If you are at higher risk of developing an infection, your healthcare provider may also prescribe antibiotics. Regardless of the type of medication you take, be sure to follow the prescribed dosage and share any allergies or underlying health conditions you may have with your provider prior to taking any medications.
Swelling is also typical after a gum grafting procedure, but you can manage this using ice packs. Remember, when applying ice packs to reduce swelling, do not leave them on the affected area for more than twenty minutes at a time.
To help alleviate pain and discomfort following your gum grafting procedure, while also lowering the risk of complications and promoting a faster recovery, be sure to follow these guidelines:
- Keep gauze in place at the site until the bleeding ceases.
- Avoid brushing the gum
- Avoid strenuous physical activities for 1-3 days after the procedure.
- Follow a soft food diet for one to two weeks, gradually reintroducing harder foods, saving hard or crunchy foods for last.
If you closely follow these steps, your recovery should be quick, and your pain levels should be minimal. If you are following these recommendations and still experiencing unusual or excessive pain, bruising, or swelling, contact your dentist to schedule a follow-up appointment.