A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) treats gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing tooth root surfaces. This helps gums heal and reattach to teeth. Careful attention after treatment ensures proper healing and sustained gum health.
Immediate Post-Procedure Care
After a deep cleaning, some tenderness, mild bleeding, or swelling is common as gums begin to heal. The initial healing phase, where gums reattach to teeth, typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks.
Wait until numbness subsides before eating to prevent accidental biting. For 24 to 72 hours, a soft diet is recommended. Avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, spicy, or acidic foods that can irritate treated areas. Also avoid extreme hot or cold temperatures, as teeth may be sensitive.
Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 72 hours, as they delay healing and increase infection risk. Minimize physical exertion for several days to prevent increased bleeding and discomfort.
Gentle oral hygiene is important. Resume regular brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush the day after, using gentle, circular motions. Flossing can usually be resumed the next day, but with caution. Rinse gently with warm salt water two to three times daily to soothe gums and aid healing.
Strategies for Comfort and Recovery
As healing progresses, managing sensitivity and discomfort is important. Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures and sweets is common but lessens over several weeks. Use toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. Avoid extreme temperatures in food and drinks.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen manage mild pain. Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek near the treated area to reduce swelling and soreness, especially within the first 48 hours. A warm compress can also alleviate pain.
Continue gentle oral hygiene throughout recovery to prevent new plaque buildup. Use prescribed antimicrobial mouthwash as directed to reduce bacteria and promote healing. Adequate rest supports the body’s healing process.
Long-Term Gum Health Maintenance
After initial healing, consistent daily oral hygiene is crucial to maintain gum health and prevent disease recurrence. Brush teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, focusing on the gumline. Daily flossing removes food particles and bacteria from between teeth and below the gumline.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for long-term gum health. More frequent visits (every three to four months) may be advised after deep cleaning for periodontal maintenance. These visits remove unreachable plaque and tartar, monitor gum health, and detect issues early.
Lifestyle factors significantly impact gum health. A balanced diet, adequate hydration, and stress management contribute to overall oral health. Avoid tobacco, a major risk factor for gum disease that hinders healing. Controlling underlying health conditions like diabetes is also beneficial.
When to Seek Dental Advice
While some discomfort and mild bleeding are normal after a deep cleaning, certain symptoms warrant immediate professional dental attention. Contact your dentist if pain becomes severe or worsens. Report persistent or excessive bleeding that does not stop after applying pressure with gauze for 20 minutes, or continues for more than 24 to 48 hours.
Signs of infection include pus or discharge from the gums, severe or persistent swelling, or a fever. A persistent unusual or foul taste or smell can also indicate an issue. Any worsening symptoms or deviations from expected healing should prompt a call to your dental office.