Scaling and Root Planing / Deep Cleaning Post Op Instructions

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Akeem AJAYI BDS, DDS
Akeem AJAYI BDS, DDS

General and Cosmetic Dentist

Table of Contents

Deep Cleaning Post-Op Instructions

Scaling and root planning is done to remove tartar or calculus around and below the gum line in order to obtain a healing response so the gum tissue so can firmly reattach to roots that are clean and smooth

  • Please wait until the numbness has worn off before eating or chewing because you could bite yourself unknowingly.
  • Avoid extremely hot or cold food for the next 24-48 hours. it is also essential to avoid acidic foods (your tooth will be sensitive) and hard foods such as popcorn, chips, or seeds for several days. Sharp particles of these foods can become lodged in the spaces between the teeth and gums, further irritating the tissues and causing setbacks.
  • Refrain from smoking for at least 24 hours after the procedure to ensure healthy healing of gum tissues. Moreover, smoking has been proven to cause and accelerate plaque build-up that eventually causes periodontal disease. Finally, smoking can reverse the success of the scaling and root planning treatment.
  • Swallow your saliva and do not rinse your mouth as this can prolong the bleeding.
  • Do not floss the treated area tonight. Start your required flossing the following evening after 24 hours.
  • Brush your mouth very gently as it may be tender or bleeding for a day or two.
  • Use the prescribed medication such as chlorhexidine gluconate as recommended.
  • Brush twice daily, use a toothbrush with soft bristles.

Several days after deep cleaning has being completed, your gums should appear more pink, less swollen, and bleed less.  These are signs of healing and improving periodontal health.  Perio Maintenance every 3 Month is needed to monitor and maintain your progress.

What to expect

If you received anesthesia to numb the area, avoid chewing anything until the numbness goes away to prevent biting your cheek, lip, or tongue.  White fillings set immediately after they are placed, so after the numbness wears off, you can chew as you normally would.

Bleeding Gums

Generally, there is extraordinarily little bleeding associated with periodontal care especially immediately after treatment. This will steadily decrease after the next couple of days and stop within a few weeks.

Pain, Swelling and Discomfort:

There may be some moderate gum discomfort after treatment. This can usually be controlled with over-the-counter analgesics such as Tylenol or ibuprofen as needed. If you experience swelling or bruising, Icing the area intermittently every 20 minutes will help with this.

Medication

Take Ibuprofen or Advil 800 mg (equal to 4 tabs of over-the-counter Ibuprofen or Advil) every 4-6 hours as needed. (Do NOT exceed 2400 mg (12 tabs) in a 24-hour period!!! AND/OR alternate Ibuprofen and Tylenol for better pain coverage.

Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is common after periodontal care and this will usually go away after time. Tartar build up on your teeth insulates the teeth from heat or cold and after the plaque has been removed, the teeth are exposed to more sensations hence the sensitivity.

  • Pain or swelling that increases or continues beyond two-three days.
  • Heavy or increased bleeding.
  • A reaction to the medication.

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