After pocket-reduction or regenerative gum surgery

The first day

• Some oozing or pink saliva is normal for a day or two. If bleeding continues, fold clean gauze or a damp black tea bag, place it on the area, and press firmly for 30 minutes.
• Hold a cold pack, wrapped in a cloth, against your face near the treated area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off while you are awake.
• Rest, and keep your head raised on pillows the first night.
• Avoid hot food and drinks until the numbness wears off, so you do not burn or bite your cheek or tongue.

Protecting the area

• If a dressing, a putty-like covering, was placed over your gums, leave it alone. Small pieces may break off, which is fine.
• Do not brush or floss the treated area until Dr. Smith says you can. Brush and clean between the rest of your teeth normally, and use the mouth rinse you were given, as directed.
• If bone graft or other regenerative material was placed, avoid pressure on the area and keep every follow-up visit. The material takes months to mature.

Eating

• Eat soft foods for about a week, and chew on the other side of your mouth.
• Avoid crunchy, hard, spicy, or very hot foods while the gums heal.

Activity

• Avoid strenuous exercise for two to three days.

What to expect

• Teeth may be sensitive to cold for several weeks. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help.
• As the gums heal and tighten, the treated teeth may look longer and small spaces may appear between them. This is expected, especially after pocket-reduction surgery.
• Treated teeth may feel slightly loose for a short time.

Medicines

• Take any medicines exactly as Dr. Smith prescribed or recommended, and finish every antibiotic you were given.
• If you take a blood thinner or other regular medicines, follow the plan you discussed before treatment.

Smoking and alcohol

• Avoid smoking and vaping while you heal. They slow healing and raise the risk of problems.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours, and while you are taking prescription pain medicine.

When to call the office

• Bleeding that does not slow after 30 minutes of firm pressure
• Pain or swelling that gets worse after the third day instead of better
• A fever
• Pus, or a bad taste or smell that does not go away
• Numbness that has not worn off by the next day
• A reaction to a medicine, such as a rash, itching, or an upset stomach that does not settle
• The whole dressing comes off in the first few days and the area hurts
• A stitch or membrane becomes visible or loose

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