What to do after a gum transplant
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To do
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Chew on the opposite side for 2 weeks
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If you have silicone pads, avoid dislodging them
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You don't need to bite on gauzes
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Resume eating a normal solid diet as soon as possible
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Do not brush the grafted area for 2 weeks
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Do not brush the palate if a graft has been harvested from the palate
To avoid
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No smoking for 1 month
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Avoid rinsing, spitting and drinking through a straw on the 1st day to avoid dislodging the blood clot.
Food
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Do not eat foods that are too hot or spicy on the 1st day. (including coffees)
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Eating foods rich in protein and vitamin C is recommended.
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Eat soft foods at the start if necessary.
To help
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Brush your teeth well and floss.
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Brush teeth lightly in the grafted area only if you are able to avoid touching the gum tissue
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Rinsing with salt and water after 48 hours can help with the healing. But don't gargle.
Medication
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Take the antibiotics (penicillin, amoxicillin, clindamycin, zithromax) as directed for 7 or 10 days.
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Do not stop taking antibiotics unless you develop an allergy (e.g. redness)
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Take pain relievers and / or anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, Advil, Tylenol) as needed.
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If this is insufficient, take those with codeine (Empracet, Percocet, Percodan) as needed (do not drive because they can cause dizziness).
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If your dentist has prescribed Dexamethasone, remember to lower the dose as recommended. Also, sometimes swelling can occur after this medication is finished.
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If your stomach cannot tolerate the medication, call your dentist.
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Taking Aspirin may increase the bleeding.
Swelling
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Apply ice to the side of the cheek for 20 min / h the day of surgery and the next day if your transplant is extensive
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During the days following surgery, you can apply warm compresses to relax the muscles.
Sutures
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The sutures are often non resorbable and will be removed by your dentist after 1 to 4 weeks depending on healing.
Silicone dressing
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The silicone dressing on the palate should remain at least 48 hours.
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If you lose your dressing too soon, please make an appointment.
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In case of emergency or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us.