Gum surgeries typically do not pose major risks to patients. Bleeding may occur initially but usually stops within 24 to 48 hours following these procedures. In very rare cases, infection may occur. In general, complications are more likely to occur following longer surgeries or among patients who smoke.

There are no major risks associated with gingivectomy, gingivoplasty and soft-tissue grafts. Some patients may need to undergo gingivoplasty to reshape the gums after a soft-tissue graft for cosmetic enhancement.

Patients who undergo gingival flap surgery may experience some postsurgical bleeding and swelling. Gums in the area treated are at increased risk for receding over time, making the teeth in the area more sensitive to hot and cold and more susceptible to developing cavities in the roots. Patients may be instructed to use desensitizing toothpastes.

Because crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth root, patients may experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold in the tooth. Covering the tooth with a temporary crown usually eliminates this sensitivity. In some cases, removing bone from around a tooth can loosen the tooth.

Patients are urged to call their periodontist if the following symptoms occur after gum surgery:

• Dressing on the gums becomes loose or displaced
• Bleeding does not stop
• Lymph nodes below the lower jaw or in the neck swell
• Pain is so strong that medications cannot control it
• Region affected by procedure swells or discharges fluids
• Signs of possible infection (redness and extreme soreness) appear