Dear Patient,
Today you received scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, to help treat gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline. To promote healing and comfort, please follow these instructions:
🦷 What to Expect After Treatment
- Mild gum soreness, swelling, or bleeding is normal for a day or two.
- Your teeth may feel sensitive to cold, sweets, or brushing for up to a week.
- Your gums may temporarily appear slightly receded as inflammation resolves.
💊 Discomfort Management
- You may take over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen) as needed.
- Avoid aspirin unless otherwise instructed, as it can increase bleeding.
- Rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 8 oz. warm water) 2–3 times a day to soothe gums and aid healing.
🪥 Oral Hygiene
- Brush gently but thoroughly twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Resume flossing carefully the day after treatment unless otherwise advised.
- We may recommend a desensitizing toothpaste or antibacterial rinse (e.g., chlorhexidine)—use as directed.
🍽️ Eating and Drinking
- Avoid eating until numbness wears off (if anesthesia was used).
- Eat soft foods for the first 24–48 hours (e.g., yogurt, eggs, soup, pasta).
- Avoid hot, spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods if your gums feel tender.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or tobacco, which can delay healing.
📅 Follow-Up Care
- Follow-up visits are essential to monitor your progress and healing.
- You may be placed on a periodontal maintenance program (typically every 3–4 months).
- We will re-evaluate your gum health at your next appointment.