Scaling and Root Planing Post-Operative Care
You just had scaling and root planing therapy at Hutchinson Family Dental. This treatment involves removing bacterial plaque and tartar from the root surface below the gum line. Doing so reduces inflammation and infection and allows the gums to reattach to the root surface. As healing occurs, the depth of periodontal pockets is reduced, allowing for more effective brushing and flossing.Most patients experience little or no post-operative discomfort. The most common symptoms are slight tenderness of the gums and sensitivity to cold foods or drinks. Please follow the instructions below to support healing and improve your dental health.
Post-Operative Care Instructions
- Be careful while numb, as hot foods and drinks such as soup, pizza, coffee, and tea can cause burns
- It is easy to bite your tongue or lip while numb
- Avoid foods with outer shells, husks, or small seeds for 48 hours, including popcorn, sunflower seeds, peanuts, nuts, strawberries, and sesame seeds
- Seeping or weeping of the gums and small visible blood clots are normal during the first 24 hours
Chlorhexidine Mouth Rinse Instructions
- Rinse for 30 seconds, two times daily, after brushing, for two weeks
- Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after use
Managing Discomfort
- Take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever as needed
- In most cases, ibuprofen (Advil) is sufficient to control discomfort
- We recommend 800 mg (four tablets) taken with food every eight hours until pain subsides
- Do not take ibuprofen if you are allergic or pregnant
- Sensitive teeth are common after treatment and usually resolve within one to two weeks
Daily Oral Care
- It is imperative to brush and floss daily
- Brushing and flossing help remove plaque and debris from between teeth
- Consistent home care is crucial in fighting periodontal disease
- Refrain from smoking for 24 to 48 hours to promote healthy healing of gum tissue
Continuing Care
- Please schedule and keep a three-week follow-up appointment
- This visit lasts about 30 minutes and allows the hygienist to evaluate gum healing
- We recommend scheduling regular periodontal maintenance appointments every three to four months, regardless of dental insurance frequency
Need a Dentist Who Makes You Feel at Home?
We’re here to support you and your family with honest, personalized dental care. Patients visit us from Hutchinson, South Hutchinson, Inman, Sterling, Yoder, Buhler, Lyons, Nickerson, Haven, Pretty Prairie, and Great Bend — and we’d love to make your dental experience personal.