Home Care Instructions: Scaling and Root Planing

Congratulations! You’ve taken the first step to a cleaner, healthier smile!

Scaling and root planing therapy involves removing bacterial plaque and tartar from the root surface below the gum line. Following therapy, you can expect less redness, less bleeding, and less swelling of your gum tissue. Your mouth will taste better and feel better. You gum health can then be maintained with proper homecare and regular professional care

FOR THE FIRST 24 HOURS:

• Do not eat or drink hot foods until the effect of the anesthetic wears off.
• Do not participate in vigorous physical exercise.
• Do not use a straw or make sucking motions.
• Do not smoke or consume alcoholic beverages for at least 48 hours.
• Do not eat food that is extreme in temperature or spicy.

THINGS TO DO:

• Discomfort: For any discomfort, you can take ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Discomfort should subside within 4-24 hours.
• Sensitivity: Teeth may be sensitive to temperature and sweets. This will usually diminish after several days. You may receive a prescription of Prevident to decrease sensitivity.
• Bleeding and Hygiene: Some slight bleeding may occur during the next few brushings. Gently brush and floss the treated area for a few days. This make take a little more time than normal. You may resume normal brushing in a week or until the soreness is gone. Rinse with a warm salt water rinse, one teaspoon in an 8 oz. glass of water, three times a day. If prescribed, rinse with Peridex (Chlorhexidine Gluconate) for 30 seconds twice daily for 2 weeks.
• Appearance: As the gums heal, they may change their shape around the teeth. This is normal as they tighten.
• Diet: Consume a soft diet for a day or two and chew on of the opposite side of the treated area.