Oops! You’re standing in front of the mirror, toothbrush in hand, and then it happens—you realize you’ve got an accidentally brushed gum graft to worry about. If you’ve had periodontal treatments recently, this might send a wave of panic through you. But don’t worry – there are steps you can take to help your healing process get back on track.
Have an accidentally brushed gum graft? Contact Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver, CO. Our team can walk you through the experience and provide advice tailored to your needs. Call us at (303) 534-2626 whenever you need help in a pinch!
First Things First: Assess the Situation
The first thing you should do after an accidentally brushed gum graft is to stop brushing immediately.
Take a moment to assess how things feel. Is there any pain? Do you notice any bleeding? It’s important to remember that a little discomfort or minor bleeding might be normal, especially if your gum graft is still in the early stages of healing.
However, if you experience sharp pain or excessive bleeding, it’s time to get in touch with our Denver, CO, dentists immediately.
Clean Up Gently
Even though you’ve got an accidentally brushed gum graft, it’s still crucial to keep your mouth clean to avoid any infection. But let’s be gentle here! Switch to a saltwater rinse instead of your regular mouthwash.
Saltwater is a natural disinfectant and can help soothe your irritated gum tissue without being harsh. Create a mixture of salt and water in a clean glass, and gently swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds. Repeat this a few times a day, especially after meals.
Take a Break from Brushing the Area
Your gum graft needs some TLC, so it’s best to avoid brushing the affected area until you’re sure it’s healed (which can take around two weeks). Continue brushing the rest of your teeth, but be cautious around the graft site.
Our Denver dentists might have given you special instructions or tools, like a soft-bristled toothbrush or an interdental brush, to use while you’re healing. Stick to those recommendations and focus on being as gentle as possible.
Manage Any Discomfort
If you’re experiencing discomfort after you’ve accidentally brushed your gum graft, you can find relief with store-bought painkillers. These products can help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort.
Additionally, you can try applying an icy pack to the face to numb the area and reduce swelling. Just make sure to wrap cold packs in a cloth to protect your skin, and don’t apply it for more than 15-20 minutes at a time.
When to Call Our Dentist Dentists
Most of the time, accidentally brushing a gum graft isn’t a cause for major concern, especially if you follow the steps above.
However, if the area becomes very painful, swollen, or you notice an unusual amount of bleeding, it’s best to err on the side of caution and give Metropolitan Dental Care a call. Our team can assess the situation and make sure everything is healing properly.
Expert Periodontal Treatments in Denver, CO
Accidentally brushing your gum graft can be a little scary, but it doesn’t have to derail your healing process. By taking immediate action and caring for the affected area properly, you’ll be back on track in no time.
If you ever need a little extra support, Metropolitan Dental Care is just a click or phone call away. Send us questions and appointment requests online, or call our Denver dental office at (303) 534-2626 for more!
