Cleaning & Exams

Scaling and Root Planning

Following scaling and root planning, you may notice less redness, less bleeding, and less swelling of your gum tissues. Your teeth may feel smoother, and your mouth will taste and feel better. Your gum health must be maintained with proper home care, as instructed, and regular professional care.

When anesthesia has been used, your lips, teeth, and tongue may be numb for several hours after the appointment. Avoid any chewing until the numbness has completely worn off. It is easy to bite or burn your tongue or lip while numb. We recommend taking some ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil, 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours as needed) before the anesthetic completely wears off. Doing so will help with swelling or pain at the injection sites where your anesthetic was administered.

It is not unusual for the teeth to be more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures and sweets. This occurs as the gum tissue heals and shrinks in size. Brushing two to three times daily with sensitive toothpaste or fluoride rinses may help alleviate this over time. If sensitivity continues or is severe, professional application of a desensitizing agent may be required.

A soft diet is recommended for a few days, chewing on the opposite side.

Consistent and thorough daily oral hygiene is essential to healing gum tissues properly. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with recommended products are critical. Use Listerine if prescribed.

In most cases, only half of the mouth is treated at a visit. Please remember to keep all appointments to complete the treatment and follow-up appointments on the opposite side.