Accurate and Pain-free Periodontal Disease Treatment by our Edmonds Dentist, Dr. Risha Khan

Signs & Symptoms

The symptoms of gingivitis are somewhat non-specific and manifest in the gum tissue as the classic signs of inflammation:

• Swollen gums
• Bright red or purple gums
• Gums that are tender or painful to the touch
• Bleeding gums or bleeding after brushing

Additionally, the stippling that normally exists on the gum tissue of some individuals will often disappear and the gums may appear shiny when the gum tissue becomes swollen and stretched over the inflamed underlying connective tissue. The accumulation may also emit an unpleasant odor.

When the gingiva are swollen, the epithelial lining of the gingival crevice becomes ulcerated and the gums will bleed more easily with even gentle brushing, and especially when flossing.

Periodontal Post Operative Care

Brushing and Flossing

• Rinse gently with Chlorhexidine 0.12% mouthwash for 30 seconds, three times per day and let it fall into the sink. Do not spit.
  
  
• Following surgery, begin brushing and flossing untreated areas.
  
  
• AVOID THE SURGICAL SITES until given specific brushing instructions at your post-operative visit.
  
  

Eating

• Following surgery, chew with the other side and AVOID CHEWING ON SURGICAL SITE.
  
  
• Please AVOID HARD/CRUSTY foods until instructed to do so at a post-operative visit.
  
  
• Softer diet such as yogurt, smoothies, milkshakes, dietary supplements (i.e. instant breakfast, Ensure), fish, pasta, mashed potatoes, and meatloaf are best during initial healing.
  
  
• AVOID peroxide, alcohol, spitting, and drinking through the straw until you are instructed to do so at a following post-operative visit.
  
  

Bleeding

• Slight bleeding or oozing is normal during the first two days following surgery. If excessive bleeding occurs, apply pressure with moist gauze or tea bag for 20-30 minutes. Repeat process if needed.
  
  

Swelling

• Localized mild swelling is normal. It should start to get better gradually after third day. If swelling starts to get worse after third day, please call our office.
  
  

Medication

• Continue medication as instructed by your physician. Some post-operative discomfort is anticipated. Please ALTERNATE 600-800 mg Ibuprofen with acetaminophen (Tylenol) 500 mg every 3 hours for the next 5-7 days to minimize discomfort.
  
  

Sutures

• It is normal for sutures to become slightly loose. They will be removed at a following post-operative visit, as needed.
  
  

Periodontal Dressing

• It is normal for it to become loose or fall out any time between the day of surgery and your next post-operative visit. Do NOT remove it on your own, when intact.