What
To Do After Scaling and Root Planing
After
Scaling and Root Planing, your gums will need time to heal. This page
lists some instructions that will help promote healing and normal processes
that you may experience.
Salt
Water Rinse
Rinse with a warm saline solution, swish for one minute, then spit
out the solution. Repeat this several times daily for 7 - 10 days. To
make the saline solution, mix 1 teaspoon salt with 8 ounces of lukewarm
water, and stir until the salt dissolves.
Cleaning
Your Teeth
It is essential that you keep the teeth as clean as possible and
bacteria-free after your visit to allow optimum healing. The root surfaces
may be sensitive to cold and touch for several days or weeks, but this
sensitivity will disappear with time and thorough home care. Brush your
teeth thoroughly, but gently. If sensitivity persists for more than 1
- 2 weeks contact our office. Prescription fluoride may be dispensed
as needed to reduce sensitivity.
Eating
and Drinking
Numbness will remain in some areas for a few to several hours. Use
caution when eating until numbness is gone to avoid injuring your lip
or tongue. Drinking fluids may be difficult due to loss of feeling. Eat
soft foods today, chewing on the side of the mouth opposite the treated
site. Try to avoid extreme heat and cold, for it may cause sensitivity
to the teeth.
Medication
for Discomfort
It is normally sufficient to take Ibuprofen or Tylenol for post-operative
discomfort. Don’t take aspirin, as it may increase bleeding and impair
healing time. If Motrin is dispensed, you should take it as prescribed.
What
to Avoid
Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption for 24 to 48 hours. Popcorn,
poppy seeds, and sesame seeds should be avoided for the duration of treatment.
Bleeding
Slight bleeding is natural at this stage of healing (during the first
48 hours). Don’t let it alarm you. Should bleeding increase, apply pressure
with gauze or a tea bag for 3 minutes. If the bleeding does not stop
call our office.
Vitamins
It is advisable to take Vitamin C to aid in the healing and repair
of your gum tissue. We recommend that you take Ester C, 1-3 times daily.
If
you have questions or concerns don’t hesitate to call our office.
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