Scale and Root Planing Aftercare
Scaling and Root Planing
Gum disease is extremely common in adult patients and one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Scaling and root planing is a treatment used to treat the disease. A deep cleaning is another term used for scaling and root planing. During the procedure, plaque and tartar are removed from below the gum line. This prevents the growth of destructive bacteria and helps restore damaged gums.
Pain
A local anesthetic is injected into the gums before the procedure to ensure patients remain comfortable. Depending on the severity of the gum disease, the patient may need to make multiple visits for treatment. Soreness and discomfort are perfectly normal following the procedure. Some of the other common side effects include redness of the gums, swelling, and irritation. In order for the procedure to be successful and to minimize discomfort, it is critical for patients to follow the aftercare instructions and maintain good oral hygiene.
Post-Procedure
Because a local anesthesia is often used, patients should avoid chewing until the numbness is gone. Eating while the mouth is numb can result in accidentally biting the tongue and cheeks. An over-the-counter pain reliever typically helps minimize discomfort in addition to a desensitizing toothpaste.
Aftercare
It is common for patients to experience some slight pain, soreness, and discomfort after treatment. This should be resolved within a few days. Aches and throbbing should be gone within a few hours. Discomfort associated with routine activities like brushing typically go away within one or two days. It is important to be gentle and cautious with brushing and flossing during the healing process. Things which are hot, cold, or sweet may cause increased sensitivity.
It is possible for patients to have some minor bleeding, but this usually ceases in a few days or less. Avoid rinsing out the mouth which can cause delays in healing. Gauze with gentle pressure can be used for about 20 minutes for any post-procedure bleeding. If bleeding does not stop within 48 hours, contact the office for follow up.
Diet Restrictions
Scaling and root planing is more extensive with more severe cases of gum disease. Avoid eating hard, crunchy, and spicy foods during the recovery period. It is important to eat a soft diet such as pasta, eggs, yogurt, smoothies, soup, Jell-O, and soft cheeses while the mouth heals.
Once the mouth has healed, patients can return to their normal diet. During the recovery period, hydration is key, and patients should consume plenty of liquids. Smoking should be avoided for two weeks following the procedure as it can hinder the body’s ability to heal. Some patients take advantage of this time and stop smoking altogether.
Oral Hygiene
Patients should be gentle with brushing until the gums have healed and feel normal. Patients can typically resume their routine oral hygiene care a few days after scaling and root planing. An antimicrobial mouthwash rinse can be helpful for cleaning the mouth during this time.
Patients can use warm salt rinse during the recovery period to help keep the gums clean. Patients who have been experiencing symptoms for more than a few days should follow up with the office to determine if there is infection or another issue.
Patients who suspect that they may have gum disease should contact the office to determine if you are a good candidate for scaling and root planing. A consultation is an excellent opportunity to ask questions related to the procedure and discuss aftercare.