After Gingivectomy (Trimming of the Gums)
- Keep dampened bandages in for 1 hour or until bleeding has stopped.
- Once the bleeding has stopped you may have whatever you want to eat. Chew towards the back of your mouth. DO NOT bite into anything with the surgical area as you might increase any discomfort or harm the gums.
- Try to avoid crunchy or sharp foods such as popcorn, peanuts, or chips as they can harm the surgical area also.
- Take the medicine as prescribed.
- Do not spit, suck through a straw or rinse today, this could increase your chances of bleeding.
- Begin brushing and salt water rinsing (½ tsp salt with 8oz of warm water) the day AFTER surgery. Rinse 3-4 times a day, after you eat and before you go to bed at night for the next several weeks, or until the surgical area has healed completely.
- Patients who received general anesthesia should return home from our office immediately upon discharge and lie down with the head elevated until all the effects of the anesthesia have disappeared. Anesthesia effects vary by individual, and you may feel drowsy for a short period of time or for several hours. You should not operate any mechanical equipment or drive a motor vehicle (including ATV's, dirt bikes, etc.) for at least 24 hours or longer if you feel any residual effects from the anesthesia. Do not use appliances or equipment that could be dangerous such as power tools, stoves, burners or lawn mowers. Watch out for dizziness. Walk slowly and take your time. Sudden changes of position can also cause nausea, dizziness or even fainting. Do not drink any alcoholic beverages. The drugs in your body may increase your reaction to alcohol and could be dangerous.