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Nov
Essential After-Care Instructions Following Gum Recession Surgery
For some patients who visit our team at Del Mar Family Dentistry in Solana Beach, California, gum recession surgery is the only path forward to reverse this consequence of gum disease. Following your gum recession surgery, you will be provided with a list of after-care instructions that are critical to proper healing. Following these instructions will help you heal properly and achieve the best possible outcome.
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Avoid Physical Activity
It’s important to take it easy after your procedure. Allowing your body time to properly rest and heal is crucial. Typically, this restriction lasts for 24 hours following your gum recession procedure, but it’s best to consult your dentist for a specific timeline. Engaging in physical activity too soon can increase blood flow to the surgical area, which may lead to bleeding or discomfort.
Enjoy Soft Foods
Eating the right foods can help minimize irritation and promote healing. We recommend sticking to soft, easy-to-eat foods such as yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods, as they can irritate the surgical area and slow down the healing process. Remember to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid disturbing the affected area.
Ways To Reduce Swelling
Swelling is a normal part of the healing process after gum recession surgery, and applying a cold compress can help reduce it. Place a cold pack on your cheek for 10-15 minutes, then take a break before reapplying. This technique can help minimize discomfort and swelling in the initial days following surgery.
Be Careful Performing Oral Hygiene
Brushing near the surgical area too soon can disrupt the healing process and may lead to additional recession. It is important to avoid brushing directly over the surgical site for at least one week. Instead, gently brush the areas of your mouth that are unaffected, and follow the rinsing instructions given by your dentist to keep the area clean.
Perform Gentle Rinses
While brushing the surgical site is off-limits, rinsing can help keep the area clean without disturbing the healing tissue. Use a gentle, dentist-approved rinse or a mild saltwater solution to flush out bacteria without aggravating the gums. Be sure to rinse slowly and avoid any forceful swishing that might disrupt the graft.
Take Medication As Directed
After your surgery, you may be prescribed medications to help manage pain and prevent infection. It is important to take all prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers exactly as directed. Avoid overusing pain medication; following your dentist’s instructions will help ensure a smoother and more comfortable recovery.
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New Patients: (858) 360-3102 | Existing Patients: (858) 755-9775
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Reach Out To Del Mar Family Dentistry Today!
Following your dentist’s instructions can put you in the best position for healing after any procedure, particularly gum recession surgery. The team at Del Mar Family Dentistry in Solana Beach, California, is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance today at (858) 360-3102 to ensure your gums remain healthy and strong!
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Dr. Dale Trudeau
Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick
Dr. Nikko Johnson
Dr. Erik Balinghasay
Del Mar Family Dentistry is served by four experienced and talented physicians: Drs. Dale Trudeau, Thomas Fitzpatrick, Nikko Johnson, and Erik Balinghasay.
Dr. Dale Trudeau has served the community of Del Mar and Solana Beach since 1984. He is a graduate and former instructor at USC School of Dentistry and has completed many hours of advanced training in restorative, cosmetic, implant dentistry, and Invisalign. He is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), California Dental Association (CDA), San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS), and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Trudeau is active in the community and volunteers at many local charities and youth organizations.
Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick is a graduate of Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) in San Diego and Loma Linda University, School of Dentistry. He is a Research Associate at PLNU, YMCA, and Foundation for Worldwide Health, along with being a member of the ADA, CDA, Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), and SDCDS. Dr. Fitzpatrick has a passion to provide sustainable dental services to underserved communities both locally and globally. In 2013 he founded Cura Coffee Company to help fund the non-profit work of Cura Smiles. This non-profit has been able to build a dental clinic in the diverse community of City Heights, San Diego to help serve the underserved in their dental needs.
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Dr. Nikko Johnson is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma and Oklahoma University College of Dentistry. After completing her dental residency, she practiced as a general dentist in Oklahoma and North Carolina before obtaining her Master of Science in Periodontology from the University Of Detroit Mercy School Of Dentistry. Among her competencies are prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases and treatment modalities with advanced oral plastic surgeries. She has had the honor of providing dental care to veterans for many years.
Dr. Erik Balinghasay is a graduate of the University of California San Diego(UCSD) and University of California Los Angeles(UCLA), School of Dentistry. Upon graduating from UCLA, he pursued advanced speciality training in Endodontics, the dental specialty related to root canals, at the University of Washington in Seattle. He is a Board-Certified Endodontist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics.