A deep cleaning, formally known as scaling and root planing, is a specialized dental procedure that treats gum disease below the gumline. It involves removing accumulated plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and roots. The goal is to eliminate inflammation, allowing gum tissue to heal and potentially reattach. Because this procedure targets areas beneath the gums, immediate aftercare requires specific modifications to your oral hygiene routine to promote healing and ensure long-term success.
Timing for Resuming Brushing and Flossing
You can typically resume brushing immediately after a deep cleaning, but the technique must change. Be extremely gentle, especially around treated areas that may be tender or slightly swollen. Use a very soft-bristled toothbrush for the first few days to avoid irritating the healing gum tissue.
Flossing and using interdental cleaners are often delayed. Dental professionals recommend waiting at least 24 hours before resuming flossing to prevent physical disruption to the delicate gum tissue.
Before brushing, your dentist may recommend rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution. A mixture of about half a teaspoon of salt in warm water helps soothe the gums and aids healing. This gentle rinsing can be done two to three times a day for the first week to flush debris.
Adjusting Your Hygiene Routine for Healing
Once you resume brushing, use an ultra-soft toothbrush and focus on gentle, circular motions rather than aggressive scrubbing. Aggressive, horizontal brushing can irritate the newly cleaned gum line and potentially lead to recession. The aim is to gently remove new plaque buildup without causing trauma.
When reintroducing flossing, proceed with caution. If traditional floss is uncomfortable, professionals may suggest using wax-coated floss or a water flosser, though the water flosser may be delayed for up to three days. Consistent, gentle cleaning is important to prevent the return of bacteria.
Your dentist may prescribe a specialized antimicrobial rinse, such as chlorhexidine gluconate 0.12%, to control bacteria during the initial healing period. This rinse is typically used for 7 to 14 days and provides protection against infection. Follow the specific instructions, which often involve using the rinse at a different time than brushing, as some toothpaste ingredients can inactivate its effect.
Managing Sensitivity and Recovery Symptoms
It is normal to experience common side effects following a deep cleaning, including gum soreness, mild swelling, and temporary bleeding. This discomfort is a sign that the gums are healing and should gradually subside within five to seven days. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are usually sufficient to manage pain or tenderness after the anesthetic wears off.
Increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli is also frequent because the root surfaces have been cleaned and exposed. This sensitivity can last for a few days up to a few weeks as the gums heal. Using desensitizing toothpaste, which contains compounds like potassium nitrate to block pain signals, can help alleviate this discomfort over time.
To support recovery, stick to soft foods for the first 24 to 48 hours and avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, or sticky, which could irritate the gums. If you notice severe pain that does not respond to medication, excessive bleeding, or swelling that increases after a few days, contact your dental office immediately. These symptoms are rare but require further assessment.