Scale & Root Planing Aftercare

If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, a common first step in treating your gums is with scaling and root planing. During a routine cleaning, your hygienist will measure the depth of your gum pockets between the teeth and gums. If these depths are more than a couple of millimeters, you may be advised scaling and root planing to clean out the build-up of plaque and bacteria. Leaving periodontal disease untreated can quickly lead to gum recession, bone loss and eventually tooth loss.

Below are some aftereffects you may experience and some tips on keeping your gums healthy once you have completed scaling and root planing.

Bleeding and Sensitivity

For a few days immediately following your deep cleaning, you may notice a little bleeding when you floss and brush along with tooth sensitivity. This should all diminish as you heal. You may benefit from a toothpaste for sensitive teeth and an antibiotic mouthwash. Your dentist will help you determine which products will be best for your individual aftercare.

Discomfort and Appearance

It is normal to notice some swelling and irritation after scaling and root planing. You can take over the counter medication if you feel you need it but after a day or two, the inflammation should subside. As the swelling goes down, you will probably notice that there is more space between your teeth which is good because there was plaque and tartar built-up and stuck to your teeth!

Minimizing Irritation

Since your gums will be sore and tender for a few days, you will want to avoid eating anything hard or crunchy like crusty breads and granola. Try to keep to a softer food diet and be sure to rinse with a warm salt water solution after eating. This will help clear food particles from those freshly cleaned open pockets.

Oral Hygiene After Scaling and Root Planing

Take care and be very gentle while brushing and flossing as your gum tissue will be very tender. You can use a warm salt water rinse to swish with which will help ease the inflammation and help keep your gums clean.

Your dentist may want to see you four to six weeks after your scale and root planing for a regular maintenance appointment to go over everything one more time and to remeasure your gum pockets. You hygienist may place an antibiotic chip in any pockets that have not healed to their satisfaction. It is also likely that your dental professional team will advise that you begin a more frequent cleaning schedule, possibly every three to four months instead of every six.

Prevention is easier and less costly than treatment so it is important and in your best interest to complete this first step in treating gum disease. Scaling and root planing can help receding gums and prevent eventual bone and tooth loss. Speak with your dentist if you think this treatment could be a good option for you.

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