Gum graft: aftercare

• Bite gently on gauze if there's bleeding. Some oozing for the first day is normal.
• Don't pull your lip or cheek to look at the graft, and don't touch it with your tongue or fingers.
• Don't brush or floss the graft area until Dr. Hourizadeh tells you to. Brush and floss the rest of your mouth normally.
• If you have a protective stent or dressing over the roof of your mouth, wear it as directed.
• Eat soft, cool foods for the first week, and chew on the other side. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy and seedy foods. Don't drink through a straw.
• Use ice packs on your face for the first day to reduce swelling.
• Take your prescribed medications as directed, and finish any antibiotics.
• Avoid smoking and vaping for at least two weeks, as they can cause the graft to fail.
• Call us if bleeding doesn't slow with gentle pressure, or if you have increasing pain or swelling after the third day.

All post-op instructions