Everyone deserves a smile they love, and the latest cosmetic dental procedures are making that easier to achieve than ever before. The laser gum lift procedure is just one example of the many options your cosmetic dentist can offer.
Learning more about dental procedures and the recovery process before committing to one is worth it. Preparing in advance can make recovery easier and improve long-term outcomes.
Read on to learn what to expect from a laser gum lift recovery and how you can support your healing gums.
What Is a Gum Lift Procedure?
An estimated three in ten Australian adults have moderate to severe gum disease. Previously, removing bacteria from the pockets along the gum line was a relatively invasive procedure. Now, we can treat many cases of gum disease or a gummy smile with the laser gum lift procedure.
Moreover, we can also use this simple procedure for cosmetic purposes. If you have a gummy smile or “short” teeth, we can gently use lasers to reshape the gum line. For many patients, this means having a smile they love, and that confidence boost matters.
During a gum laser lift, a laser fibre nearly as thin as a strand of hair eliminates bacteria below the gums and removes any excess gum tissue. In the aftermath, most patients experience some minor sensitivity, and all patients need to be mindful of their healing gums.
Top Do’s and Don’ts of Gum Lift Procedure Recovery
After your gum lift procedure, your gums need to form clots and heal themselves, and it’s important that you don’t disturb those clots. In total, gum lift recovery can take between four and six weeks. Here are the most important dos and don’ts to follow during that time.
Do Take the Day Off
Gum lifts aren’t invasive; we can typically monitor comfort levels using local anesthesia. However, you may not want to go to work or meet up with friends on the day of your procedure.
Afterwards, you will probably experience temporary soreness and discomfort, and it’s in your best interest to go home and rest and relax. That said, many patients are able to return to work that same day as the procedure, as the laser doesn’t require general anesthetic or admission to a hospital to be performed.
Don’t Risk Post-Operative Bleeding
While your gums are healing and forming clots, it’s not a good idea to exert excessive pressure by lifting heavy objects. Exerting that kind of physical pressure can cause post-operative bleeding that can delay the healing process.
Avoid lifting heavy objects for at least one week. Light exercise can be resumed about three to four days after your procedure.
Do Eat a Soft (and Healthy) Diet
Too much chewing can dislodge those small clots working hard to heal your new gum line. Stick with soft foods for at least one week after your gum lift procedure.
Soft foods like milkshakes and jelly certainly count, but don’t forget to prioritize vitamins and nutrients. Smoothies and soups are a great way to add some balance to a soft diet.
Don’t Eat Hard or Crunchy Foods
You should also avoid hard or crunchy foods for about two weeks. Even once you’ve started eating more solids, you should still avoid certain foods that require a lot of chewing.
For example, opt for roasted vegetables over raw vegetables. If you’re going to eat meat, make sure nothing can lodge between your teeth to maximise the healing journey.
Do Practice Oral Hygiene
To prevent bacteria from taking hold, you’ll want to use a saltwater rinse every few hours in the first 24 hours after your procedure. Mix about one teaspoon of salt into about half a cup of warm water and swirl (don’t swish) it around your mouth for 30 seconds.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush in the weeks after your procedure. Point the bristles down toward the teeth so they don’t disturb the gums.
Don’t Disturb the Treated Area
While good oral hygiene is necessary during gum lift recovery, you must take extra precautions. Don’t floss areas that have been treated. Don’t brush your gums with your toothbrush, even if it is soft-bristled.
Talk to your cosmetic dentist about the specifics of post-treatment dental care. They can tell you when to resume your normal routine.
Do Maintain an Elevated Position
Your cosmetic dentist will prevent excessive bleeding before you leave your appointment. You may notice a small amount of blood in your saliva. This is normal in the first 24 hours, but you don’t want it to get worse.
One way to assist with the healing process and prevent excessive bleeding is to keep your head elevated while you sleep the night after the procedure. Use two pillows and try to sleep on your back rather than on your stomach or side.
Don’t Smoke or Use Straws
It’s important to avoid creating pressure in the mouth for at least a week. Pressure can dislodge the small clots along your gum line.
Pressure in the mouth is created when you suck air in or blow air out. Don’t smoke or use straws. It would be best if you also avoid activities that involve pursing your lips and blowing, for example, blowing up balloons or playing wind instruments.
Do Come in For Follow-Ups
Before you leave, your cosmetic dentist will schedule a follow-up call or appointment after your procedure. This allows them to assess your healing and see if any additional work is needed.
Don’t hesitate to call if you have any questions or concerns before your follow-up. For example, call immediately if you notice signs that your gums are starting to recede. While gum lift procedures do remove excess gum tissue, additional gum recession can expose the roots of your teeth and increase tooth sensitivity. This is rare.
Call Adelaide Cosmetic Dentistry for a Gum Lift Procedure
The modern laser gum lift procedure provides a non-invasive way to clean the gum line and correct gummy smiles. Refer to this guide if you have any questions about the post-procedure recovery.
Adelaide Cosmetic Dentistry offers all the latest cosmetic dental procedures in a relaxed, boutique environment. Request a consultation if you’re ready to restore your smile in comfort.
