Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

The following information is intended to help you obtain the best results from your periodontal (gum) treatment:

1. Be very careful not to bite or injure your cheek, lip or tongue while you are still numb. It may take a few hours for the anesthesia to completely wear off. You may notice a tingling sensation as the anesthesia begins to wear off.
2. Although your gum tissues may be sore and tender for a few days, it is still important to thoroughly follow the oral hygiene instructions that were given to you.
3. Tylenol or Ibuprofen will help relieve any discomfort you may have. You can take 500 to 1,000 mg of Tylenol or 600 to 800 mg of Ibuprofen every 6 to 8 hours. Warm, salt water rinses may also be helpful. Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in ½ cup of warm water, swish for 1 minute and spit out the excess. Do this 3 to 4 times per day.
4. Avoid eating foods that easily get caught between your teeth and are difficult to remove. Examples include popcorn and sesame seeds. However, make sure to eat a well-balanced diet, as this helps with the healing process.
5. Smoking plays a big role in periodontal disease and diminishes the prognosis following periodontal treatment. Now is a good time to quit smoking.
6. The appearance of your gum tissues may change following periodontal treatment. After your gum tissues heal, there will be a reduction in the swelling of these tissues around your teeth. You may notice some gum recession or open spaces between teeth.
7. Approximately 4 weeks after your deep cleaning, it is important to have the probe depths around the gum tissues and your oral hygiene re-evaluated. A maintenance schedule that is appropriate for you will also be set up. Studies have found that a thorough maintenance cleaning once every 3 to 4 months along with good oral hygiene are the most effective ways to maintain your periodontal health.
8. Additional periodontal therapy or treatment may be necessary following deep cleaning if areas of the disease are still present. This may involve antibiotic therapy or periodontal (gum) surgery.

NOTE: Periodontal disease is the #1 cause of tooth loss in adults. Anyone who has had periodontal disease will always have the potential for the same problem to redevelop in the gum tissues. Your best defense to avoid further problems is to follow a professional cleaning schedule and to practice excellent oral hygiene at home. To learn more about periodontal disease, please click here.