🦷 Dental Aftercare
Gum Contouring Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for gum contouring: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
Typical recovery: about 10 daysDental
Gum Contouring recovery, day by day
Day 0 (Procedure Day)
Immediate Care
- Some bleeding and tenderness is normal
- If laser was used, bleeding is usually minimal
- If a scalpel was used, gauze pressure may be needed for 15-20 minutes
- Apply ice: 20 min on, 20 min off to reduce swelling
Diet
- Soft, cool foods only: yogurt, ice cream, pudding, smoothies
- Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, and acidic foods
- No alcohol for 48 hours
Day 1-5
Gum Healing
- Gums will look red and may appear uneven initially
- Do NOT brush treated gums for 2-3 days; brush other teeth gently
- Rinse with prescribed antimicrobial rinse or warm salt water
- Avoid flossing the treated area until your dentist clears you
Day 6-10
Cosmetic Results
- Final gum shape becomes visible as swelling resolves
- Gum color returns to normal pink over several weeks
- Resume normal oral hygiene routine
- Follow up for evaluation of cosmetic results
When to call your provider or 911
- •Bleeding that restarts heavily after the first day
- •Increasing swelling or pain after 48 hours
- •White or yellow patches with fever (possible infection)
- •Gum tissue turning very dark or black
- •Foul taste or odor that persists
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 3
Resume brushing
Gently brush the treated area
- Day 10
Final gum shape visible
Swelling resolved, cosmetic results apparent
For clinics
Stop photocopying aftercare sheets.
QR Rx sends this exact gum contouring recovery plan to every patient, branded to your practice, opened by a QR code. It checks in automatically, answers post-op questions, asks for a review at the right moment, and brings patients back for their next visit. The aftercare you already owe every patient, doing the work of keeping them.
HIPAA compliant. No credit card. Cancel anytime.