Gums Healing After Deep Teeth Cleaning

Deep teeth cleaning is a non-surgical but involved procedure if you have signs of gum disease, like swollen gums, increased teeth sensitivity, bleeding gums, or receding gums. If you have any of these symptoms, you will have gum disease and will need deep teeth cleaning.

How Often Does Deep Teeth Cleaning Need to Be Done

You should have a deep teeth cleaning as soon as you have been diagnosed with gum disease. Gingivitis, the first stage, is a chronic condition which will worsen with time. In the early stage, gum disease can be reversed with a regular teeth cleaning treatment. If you do not act promptly the gum disease may progress to periodontitis, which will then require an even more intense deep teeth cleaning procedure.

Deep Teeth Cleaning Aftercare

Here are some suggestions after your treatment:

  • Do not eat when your mouth is numb- You will be advised not to eat before your procedure, which then increases your temptation to eat after your deep teeth cleaning. You must avoid eating until any numbness from the anesthesia fades away. Eating with your mouth still numb increases any risk of biting your tongue, gums, or cheeks.
  • Be careful what you eat after your dental deep cleaning- Your gums and teeth will be sensitive for a few hours, so avoid certain foods that will disrupt your healing process. Avoid acidic foods, hard or challenging foods, crunchy foods, or foods that can get lodged between your teeth and gums.
  • Use over-the-counter pain medication to manage the discomfort- You might experience some discomfort after the deep teeth cleaning. You can buy over-the-counter pain medications to reduce this discomfort.
  • Take prescription antibiotics- Your dentist may prescribe an antibiotic to prevent any infections. You need to take the antibiotics following the appropriate instructions.
  • Expect the swelling and discomfort to last a few days- It is completely normal to experience some swelling and discomfort for a couple of days because your gums will be sensitive. You can simply place ice packs on your cheeks to control the swelling. If the swelling persists, contact your dentist.
  • Expect minor bleeding for up to 48 hours- For approximately two days after your treatment, you may notice a pinkish color to your saliva from minor bleeding. This is normal but contact your dentist if the bleeding continues after 48 hours. Also, avoid rinsing for the first 48 hours.
  • Saltwater rinsing 4-6 times a day- After your first 48 hours, you will be told to rinse your mouth with saltwater at least 4 to 6 times a day to keep your mouth free from any bacteria.

Do The Gums Reattach After the Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Deep teeth cleaning does promote gum reattachment by removing the obstructions of bacteria, plaque, and tartar, from your teeth below the gumline. By removing the primary source of the gum infection, your gums will heal naturally on their own. Your gums will start to heal immediately, and in approximately 5 days will lead to significant tightening.

How Often Should Deep Teeth Cleaning Be Done?

Deep teeth cleaning is not routine. It is only performed if you are dealing with gum disease. You should have routine teeth cleaning every six months to remove plaque and prevent gum disease from developing.

How Long Does Deep Teeth Cleaning Take?