After your gingivectomy, you will likely experience swelling and bleeding, as well as possible bruising or chapped lips. To manage the swelling, you will want to use an ice pack within the first two days for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. After the third day, you can switch to a hot pack for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Additionally, keeping your help elevated will keep the swelling down.
You may also notice your saliva is a pink color for about 48 hours after your gingivectomy. To alleviate bleeding, you will want to avoid hot foods and rinsing your mouth. Both hot foods and rinsing your mouth will cause the bleeding to continue.