Scaling And Root Planing Recovery

Gum disease can adversely affect your dental health, leading to bleeding, inflamed gums, and foul breath. At Periodontal Associates, Dr. Chetan S. Patil uses scaling and root planing to remove built-up plaque and diminish the early signs of gum disease.

This treatment can effectively prevent periodontal disease from worsening, but what can patients expect from the recovery? In this blog post, we review the scaling and root planing recovery period. Read on to learn more, and then contact our Englewood, NJ practice to schedule an appointment with us.

Scaling and Root Planing

The purpose of scaling and root planing is to remove built up plaque and reestablish a healthy attachment between the gums and tooth roots. This can reduce bleeding of the gums, decrease inflammation, and close up pockets around the teeth.

What to Expect during Scaling and Root Planing

To ensure patients are comfortable during the procedure, Dr. Patil numbs the gums with a topical anesthetic. He will then use an ultrasonic scaling device to eliminate deep-seated plaque bacteria with sonic vibrations.

He will then smooth the roots of the teeth to discourage bacteria from accumulating and encourage the gums to re-attach to the teeth.

Aftercare Is Key

In order for the scaling and root planing procedure to be a success, patients must follow our aftercare instructions during the recovery period.

Dealing with Discomfort

After the scaling and root planing procedure, you may experience some tooth discomfort. This could last for a couple of weeks.

Patients may also experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, but this should improve within a matter of a few weeks.

You may use over-the-counter pain medication to treat discomfort.

Cleaning Your Teeth

To keep the teeth clean and free of buildup, patients should gently brush and floss their teeth to thoroughly remove plaque. Those experiencing tooth sensitivity can use a desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne for four to six weeks following the procedure.

Patients may also rinse their mouth out with a saltwater rinse in the days after the procedure to help with healing.

Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks

Since the gums may be sensitive in the days after the procedure, you may want to avoid certain foods and drinks. For example, overly hot, cold, crunchy, or sticky foods may cause sensitivity, so it is best to avoid them during this time.

In addition, you will want to avoid any foods or smoothies that contain small pieces, such as seeds. These small pieces of food could get lodged within the healing gum line, causing complications.

Improved Oral Health

While the gums do need some time to heal and regenerate after treatment, the side effects of scaling and root planing subside within a couple of weeks. With routine brushing and flossing at home, patients can expect the health of their gums to improve weekly. After a month or two, any redness, swelling, or bleeding of the gums should go away completely.

Call Today for a Customized Consultation

If you are exhibiting signs of gum disease, it is important to act quickly to mitigate the effects of this condition. Dr. Patil can assess any issues you are experiencing and create a scaling and root planing treatment plan that best suits your needs. To schedule an appointment, call 201-567-7766 or contact us online anytime.