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.
Gum Contouring recovery, day by 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
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
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
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Bleeding that restarts heavily after the first day
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Increasing swelling or pain after 48 hours
- •Call your care team today if you notice: White or yellow patches with fever, possible infection
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Gum tissue turning very dark or black
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Foul taste or odor that persists
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 3
Recovery Progress Check
Notice what is improving, unchanged, or worsening. Contact the care team if symptoms are getting worse or the next step is unclear.
- Day 10
Ongoing Recovery Review
Review any remaining symptoms or restrictions with the care team before changing your routine.
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 card, no contract.