Thank you for taking an important step toward improving your oral health. Please follow these instructions carefully to support healing and reduce discomfort after your scaling and root planning (deep cleaning) procedure.
When to Call Us
It’s normal to experience some discomfort for a few days after your scaling and root planning. However, please contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent or sever pain.
- Prolonged bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure.
- Significant swelling after 48 hours
- Signs of infection (e.g., fever, pus, foul taste)
After Care Instructions
Eating Guidelines
- Do not eat or drink until the anesthetic has fully worn off to prevent accidental injury to your lips, cheek, or tongue.
- Once the anesthetic wears off, stick to soft food (e.g., soups, eggs, yogurt, pasta) for the rest of the day, or until you feel comfortable returning to your normal diet.
Oral Care Day of Treatment:
You may skip brushing and flossing the treated areas the evening after your procedure.
Oral Care Day After Treatment and Onward:
- Resume brushing and flossing as directed by your hygienist. Proper home care is critical for healing and to help prevent further periodontal issues.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently along the gumline.
- Follow any personalized recommendations made during your appointment (e.g., special brushes or rinses).
What to Expect After Treatment
You may also experience the following symptoms following your scaling and root planning:
- Bleeding: Slight bleeding or a pink tint in your saliva is normal for the first 24-48 hours.
- Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods for a few days. You may wish to avoid them during this time.
- Discomfort or Soreness: Your gums may feel sore or tender. Your jaw may be sore from keeping your mouth open during the procedure, and if anesthetic was administered, the injection site may be tender.
Pain Management and Medications
To manage discomfort:
- Use over the counter pain medication. We recommend taking two tablets of Ibuprofen (e.g., Motrin 200mg) with two tablets of Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol 500mg) together, unless you have a medical condition or allergy that prevents this.
- Take pain relievers before the anesthetic wears off, or as recommended.
- To ease sore gums and/or a tender injection site you can rinse gently with warm salt water (1 tsp salt in 8 oz of warm water) up to 3 times a day.
What to Expect During Healing
In the days following your treatment, some positive signs of healing you should begin to see are:
- Appear less red or swollen
- Bleed less when brushing or flossing
- Begin to look healthier and tighter around your teeth
Maintenance
Maintenance is key. Long-term success in managing periodontal disease depends on excellent oral hygiene at home.
- Professional cleanings are recommended every 3 months.
Questions or Concerns?
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our office at 513-245-2200. We’re here to support your healing and continued dental health.
