SRP Post Op

Instructions after Scaling and Root Planing

These are some helpful suggestions that will increase your comfort and help you to receive the maximum benefit from periodontal treatment. First, patients should keep in mind that certain symptoms after an SRP, or deep cleaning, are perfectly normal, but symptoms such as severe pain and significant bleeding are not usual. Thus, please do not hesitate to call the office if you have any questions or have any abnormal developments during healing.

Tenderness is normal

To reduce tenderness and promote healing, every two to three hours, rinse with warm salt water: 1⁄2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water. Above all, rinsing with saline water can also help promote healing of the gums and keep the mouth clean in order to prevent any infection from bacteria. Patients often find the warm salt water soothing to slightly inflamed gums.

Bleeding

Generally, there is very little bleeding associated with periodontal care, but it can occasionally occur, especially immediately after treatment. Additionally, some slight oozing may occur and this is normal. Though, it is important for patients to brush and floss regularly to prevent any infection while the gums are healing. With any excessive bleeding or bleeding a few days after treatment, patients should contact our office.

Pain

There may be some moderate gum discomfort after treatment, but this can usually be controlled with over the counter analgesics, such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol. You may want to take one of these immediately after the appointment and for the next 24 hours as directed.

Sensitivity

It is not unusual to have some transient temperature sensitivity after periodontal care. Though, this will usually go away after time. Consequently, the best treatment is to keep your teeth impeccably clean. You may desire to use desensitizing toothpaste daily, such as Sensodyne, or a fluoride rinse. Please tell us if we can help you with these.

Eating

Highly nutritious food is necessary for the healing process. Soft food is desirable the first day. Avoid foods that require excessive chewing, as well as, sticky, crunchy or coarse foods. You may also choose to avoid extreme temperatures in foods and liquids. Patients should also NOT SMOKE! Moreover, smoking has been proven to cause and accelerate plaque build-up that eventually causes periodontal disease. Finally, smoking can reverse the success of the scaling and root planing treatment.

Remember to call promptly in case of severe pain, excessive bleeding or unusual developments.