Scale and Root Planing Aftercare

Following your scaling and root planing cary procedure, you will quickly begin to notice that your gums are less swollen, red, and prone to bleeding, which is a sign that they have returned to a healthy state.

Although you will experience several positive changes, during your recovery period you may also experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Pain or discomfort: It is common to experience mild aching or throbbing following your scaling and root planing procedure. This aching and throbbing will typically subside a few hours after the procedure, and the discomfort felt while brushing should be significantly improved within three days.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity to food or beverages that are hot or cold, as well as to sweets, is very common for the first two to three days following your procedure.
  • Bleeding: Patients typically experience mild bleeding while brushing, but this should go away after two or three days.
  • Appearance: Because the root surfaces are now more exposed, you may notice that there is now more space between your teeth.
  • Discomfort in your jaw: Though uncommon, patients will occasionally experience jaw discomfort or have headaches or earaches. Over the counter pain relievers will typically relieve this pain, but if the pain persists, let your dentist know at your next visit.
  • Fever: Also uncommon, some patients may develop a low-grade fever and chills following the scaling and root planing procedure. If this does happen to you, be sure to hydrate and take Tylenol to reduce the fever.

Instructions to Minimize Symptoms

There are several things you can do to help minimize any symptoms you may be experiencing following your scaling and root planing procedure. One of the most important things to be mindful of during the recovery period is to carefully watch your diet and take active efforts to avoid the following types of food for at least three weeks: granola, chips, seeds, nuts, popcorn, or any foods that are crunchy or hard.

Eating the right foods while you are recovering from your scaling and root planing procedure is just as important as avoiding the wrong foods. During your recovery process, the following food options are ideal:

  • Applesauce
  • Cottage cheese
  • Creamy soups
  • Eggs
  • Egg salad
  • Hot cereal
  • Ice cream
  • Macaroni and cheese
  • Yogurt

Once chewing begins to feel more comfortable, you can begin slowly reintroducing harder foods. To limit any sensitivity, pain, or discomfort you may be experiencing, most over-the-counter pain relieving medications will suffice. If sensitivity continues, it may also be helpful to use a desensitizing toothpaste. In rare cases, it may be necessary to have a desensitizing agent professionally applied, but this is very uncommon.

Finally, be sure to practice gentle brushing techniques, especially during the initial recovery period. Typically, patients can resume normal brushing habits within three or four days. Mouth rinsing is also recommended. If you follow these simple steps, your recovery process should be very quick!

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