Gum contouring reshapes the gumline around one or more teeth. The precise procedure and healing instructions depend on whether gum tissue alone, or gum tissue and underlying bone, were treated.
Your dentist will provide instructions based on the procedure you’ve had and the areas treated. Follow those instructions if they differ from the general guidance below.
If local anaesthetic was used, wait until normal sensation has returned before eating. Take care not to bite your lips or cheeks while you are numb.
Some tenderness, swelling or minor bleeding may occur around the treated gums.
The treated gumline may look different while it heals. Redness, tenderness, swelling and minor bleeding can occur, and the appearance may change as the tissues recover.
If discomfort becomes severe, swelling continues to increase or something doesn’t feel right, contact your dentist.
Softer foods may be easier while your gums are tender.
Your dentist will let you know when you can return to your usual diet.
Keep your mouth clean while your gums heal, but handle the treated area gently.
Once healed, continue brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between your teeth and attending regular dental appointments.
While your gums are healing:
If an activity causes increased bleeding, discomfort or swelling, stop and contact the practice for advice.
Contact us if you have:
For assistance outside regular opening hours, call (03) 9499 9033 for information about our after-hours arrangements.
If bleeding following gum contouring is heavy and cannot be controlled, call 000 or attend the nearest emergency department.
Significant swelling that affects breathing or swallowing also requires emergency care.
Continue looking after your teeth, but your dentist may recommend changing how you brush around the treated area temporarily. Follow the cleaning instructions provided at your appointment.
Your dentist may recommend avoiding strenuous activity for a short period. When you can return to exercise will depend on your procedure and how you are healing.
Healing varies depending on the treatment and your individual circumstances. Your dentist can give you a more specific timeframe and advise whether the area needs to be reviewed.
The gumline may look different during the healing period, and the tissues can change as they recover. Your dentist can assess the area during follow-up and explain what to expect.
A fee may be charged for appointments cancelled without 48 hours notice.
