If you have gum recession, you might be wondering what gum recession surgery is. Gum recession occurs when the gums surrounding your teeth recede, causing some of your teeth to become more exposed than they once were. Gum recession can occur naturally as you age or as a result of heavy brushing and flossing, but it can also be caused by an actual physical injury to the gums themselves. The severity of gum recession varies from person to person; in severe cases, the gums can be completely removed from around your teeth, leading to gaps that make it impossible to clean effectively with toothbrushes and floss.
Dispelling Rumors
Gum recession surgery, also known as periodontal flap surgery, will not hurt your gums or jaw in any way. It is not painful; it does not hurt to touch. When performed correctly, gum recession surgery can be performed quickly and easily with little to no pain. The procedure itself is completed in one visit, meaning you don’t have to make multiple trips back to your dentist’s office over time and can recover comfortably at home after just one visit.
Getting Ready For Surgery
The journey to gum recession surgery can be daunting and nerve-wracking, but there are several steps you can take to prepare for your procedure. Your dentist will tell you what to expect in terms of pain and recovery time, but knowing what’s ahead can help keep you calm. If possible, start taking arnica tablets or drops 1–2 weeks before your surgery; they work by reducing swelling and bleeding after surgery. Also, avoid brushing too hard or using whitening products in your mouth; both will encourage bleeding that could delay healing. If you want to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible on your end, try not to change anything about your routine for a few days before and after surgery (see above).
The Night Before The Procedure
Before you get your teeth worked on, make sure you have a good night’s sleep, pack light so that you can easily carry things around with you, be sure to wear comfortable clothes and keep any pain relievers or medications within reach. You’ll want to take these things with you when they discharge you from hospital so don’t leave them behind by accident. Have somebody come along with you as well if possible so that they can help drive if needed and provide support as well. Being able to have someone there for moral support during such an important time will help in easing anxiety and stress which would otherwise negatively impact your recovery period.
The Day Of The Procedure
When you arrive, you’ll be asked to sign a few forms and then escorted to an examination room where you’ll speak with your dentist or physician about what exactly will happen. It might seem scary or overwhelming at first, but remember that they are doing their job—and so are you. It’s important to understand exactly what is happening during each step of gum recession surgery so that it goes smoothly. Knowing how everything works will make your day go by more quickly and comfortably—and that can really make all of the difference when facing a procedure like gum recession surgery. After any necessary pre-surgery preparations, anesthesia will be administered and your tooth will be removed from its socket so that it can be worked on.
Post Op Day
I am now three days post gum recession surgery. I feel like I’m getting back to normal and I’m ready to get back to eating solid foods again. This morning, my doctor removed all of my stitches, including ones inside my mouth (that was weird). He said everything went as expected, that he was pleased with how little scarring there is, and that they were able to repair everything they set out to repair. Like most surgical procedures, mine isn’t exactly fun or pretty—but it could have been much worse. My gums are still swollen and irritated from incisions around them caused by medical instruments and having those incisions stitched up.
Post Op Day  – Home Recovery
To help you as you recover at home, we’ve provided some post-operative instructions for you to follow. Your surgeon will also give you a list of dos and don’ts when it comes to your mouth and diet.
