Scaling and Root Planing Post-Op Instructions

Thank you for the opportunity to take great care of you. Sometimes it is hard to remember all the post-operative instructions we go over in the office. We understand that having Scaling and Root Planing, or a ‘Deep cleaning’ and any other periodontal treatments can be stressful, so we want to follow up with a few recommendations to help make your recovery more comfortable.

If applicable, localized anesthesia will wear off within the next few hours. Local anesthesia may cause the feeling of ‘swelling’, however, please know there is no swelling of the anesthetized tissues such as the lip or tongue.

Localized tissue or gum tenderness may occur. This is a normal response and will subside within the next 48 hours. The tenderness may cause the tissue to feel bruised with excessive chewing.

Continue to perform the at home oral hygiene instructions as recommended by your hygienist such as brushing, flossing and rinsing normally.

Flossing after your periodontal treatment may feel sensitive at first. However, the tissue will improve at a faster rate with gentle routine flossing because of localized bacterial and food debris removal.

If localized gum irritation occurs, brush and floss gently. Then, swish with warm salt water for 30 seconds and spit. (1/2 teaspoon salt: 8 ounces warm water)

If localized gingival ulceration (canker sore) occurs, brush and floss gently. Then, swish with warm baking soda water for 30 seconds and spit. (1/2 teaspoon baking soda: 8 ounces warm water)

Pain or anti-Inflammatory medications may be taken per over-the-counter recommendations, if needed.

You should recover in a few days but if you experience abnormal discomfort or have any questions regarding recovery, please feel free to call us.