Post-Op Instructions for Root Planing & Scaling – Daytona Beach, FL
We offer root planing and scaling as a way to treat gum disease, removing plaque and tartar while making it harder for bacteria to collect under your gums. We will ensure that you’re comfortable before beginning the procedure, however it’s normal to experience slight soreness after. Read on to learn some useful post-operative instructions for root planing and scaling so you know what to expect after treatment:
- Once your treatment is completed, your teeth may feel smoother, and you can expect less redness, bleeding, and swelling of your gum tissues. Your mouth may even taste better. Now, your gum health must be maintained with proper home and professional care.
- When anesthesia has been used, your lips, teeth, and tongue may be numb for several hours after the appointment. Avoid chewing until the numbness has completely worn off because it’s easy to bite or burn your tongue or lip while numb. Take Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil, 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours as needed) before the anesthetic completely wears off. This will help with swelling or pain at the injection sites.
- It is not unusual for teeth to be more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, and/or sweets. This occurs as the gum tissue heals and shrinks in size. Brushing 2-3 times daily with sensitivity toothpaste or using fluoride rinses may help alleviate this over time. If sensitivity continues or is severe, professional application of a desensitizing agent may be required.
- For a few days, a soft diet is recommended, chewing on the opposite side.
- Consistent and thorough daily oral hygiene is essential to the proper healing of your gum tissues. Brushing, flossing and rinsing with recommended products are critical. Use Listerine, or if prescribed, Peridex (Chlorhexidine).
- In most cases, only one half of your mouth is treated during a single appointment. Please remember to keep all appointments to complete the treatment on the opposite side, and all follow-up visits thereafter.
- Please remember that you will need to be seen for follow up periomaintenance appointments every 3 to 4 months going forward. If you have dental insurance, you may have a deductible or co-pay for each of these visits. You are no longer considered a preventive (free) cleaning once you have been diagnosed and treated for periodontal disease.
If you have any other questions, feel free to contact our dental office to get in touch with one of our friendly team members.