Scaling and Root Planing (aka Deep Cleaning)
Post-Operative Care

You just had scaling and root planing therapy. This involves removing bacterial plaque and tartar from the root surface below the gum line. This reduces inflammation, infection and allows reattachment of the gums to the root surface. The depth of the periodontal pockets is reduced, allowing more efficient flossing and brushing.

Most patients experience little or no postoperative discomfort. The most frequent complaints are slight tenderness of the gums and teeth may be sensitive to cold drinks and foods. Please follow these guidelines for efficient healing and improving your dental health.

Post Operative Treatment

      1. Be careful while you are numb. Hot foods and drinks, such as soup, pizza, coffee and tea can seriously burn your mouth. It is easy to bite your tongue and lip while numb.

      2. Use warm salt water rinses.

·         1 tsp. salt per 8 oz. of water several times per day for up to one week. This is soothing and promotes faster healing.

      3. Take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever. In most cases, ibuprofen (Advil) will be sufficient to control discomfort. We recommend 800 mg (4 tablets). Take this dosage with food every 8 hours until the pain subsides and never longer than three days. Do not take ibuprofen if you have an allergy or are pregnant.

      4. It is imperative that you floss and brush daily. Brushing and flossing daily helps to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth. This is crucial in fighting periodontal disease.

      5. Refrain from smoking 24-48 hours to promote healthy healing of gum tissues.

      6. Sensitive teeth are very common after treatment and usually resolves in 1-2 weeks.

      7. Our hygienist my give you a mouth rinse to kill the bacteria associated with gum disease.

·         How to use Chlorhexidine mouth rinse

1.    Rinse for 30 seconds, 2 times daily, after brushing, for 2 weeks.

2.    Rinse 1 time daily (at night) after brushing, until the bottle is gone.

3.    Avoid eating and drinking for 2-3 hours after use.

Continuing Care

      1. It is advised to schedule and keep a 1 month follow up appointment. This appointment is about 10 minutes and allows the hygienist to see how your gum tissues are healing.

2. We advise scheduling and attending regular dental maintenance appointments, every 3-4 months, regardless of the frequency in your dental insurance plan.

If you have any questions, please call our office.