AFTER YOUR PERIODONTAL SCALING AND ROOT PLANING PROCEDURE

Eliminating active infection in your gum tissue and maintaining a healthy mouth for the rest of your lifetime is one of the most important things you can do for your body. Now that you’ve completed your Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing procedure, please note the following:

WHAT TO EXPECT: Some discomfort, bleeding and/or swelling are expected after having periodontal treatment.

CARE OF YOUR MOUTH:

  • Rinse your mouth 2-3 times a day with warm salt water: one teaspoon of table salt per 8 oz of warm water.

  • Continue for at least 2-3 days following your procedure.

  • A medicated antibacterial rinse may be dispensed to help promote gum healing.

DISCOMFORT: Your gums may feel “achy” or sore. For mild pain after the numbness wears off, you can:

    • take 2 Tylenol, Motrin, or Advil (avoid Aspirin) every 6 hours, unless contraindicated.

    • Sensitivity to cold food or drinks may occur for the next 24 hours.

    • Be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste or rinse to help re-mineralize teeth and relieve tooth sensitivity. There are a few over the counter or prescription strength fluoride, calcium and potassium nitrate oral care products that can help you desensitize and strengthen your teeth.

    • Please let us know if you experience discomfort and we can help you find the right product for you. Some patients may feel no discomfort after treatment.

BLEEDING OR SWELLING: Light bleeding following this procedure is normal. Swelling or jaw stiffness occur very rarely. A warm moist towel can be used to help relieve swelling/stiffness for about 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off for a few days following treatment.

BRUSHING: You may gently brush the area this evening. Return to normal but gentle circular brushing tomorrow. Remember, never brush with a medium or hard bristle toothbrush or in an aggressive manner.

FLOSSING: Please refrain from using floss today and tomorrow morning. However, start flossing daily after day two of your treatment. Remember, brushing alone will only remove part of the bacteria and plaque that is growing on your teeth every day. You need to floss every day to remove the harmful bacteria and plaque growing on the roots of your teeth below your gum line to promote healing and prevent relapse.

DIET: Your next meal should consist of only soft foods. Avoid any hard or crunchy foods for the next 3-4 days (popcorn, chips, pretzels).

SMOKING WARNING: Tobacco smoke will prolong or discourage the healing process. If you are a smoker, now is a great time to quit smoking. In the very least, do not smoke following your scaling and root planning procedure for at least 24 hours.

PERIODONTAL MAINTENANCE: Now that you have taken this important first step to a healthier mouth and body, you will need to continue treatment to control and remove any active infection in your gum tissues. Periodontal Maintenance Procedures are recommended every 3 months following Scaling and Root Planing to monitor your progress and to remove bacteria from deeper pockets to prevent a relapse or re-infection. We recommend scheduling these visits at each visit to ensure availability for your needed care.

If you have any questions or experience a problem, please call us as soon as possible.