Gums Healing After Deep Teeth Cleaning

First the dentist determined that a deep cleaning was necessary to address your gum disease and to improve your oral health. Then you completed the scaling and root planing of the affected area. Now you need to ensure that your gums and mouth heal well after the procedure so you did not have that procedure only to need it again soon. The removal of plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line and the smoothing of the root surfaces of your teeth allow for your gums to reattach more firmly. While recovery is generally straightforward, understanding the process can help you achieve the best possible outcome.

During the first few days after your procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity in your gums and teeth like most people following the deep cleaning. This is a result of the removal of the inflammation causing irritants and your gums need time to adjust and heal. Talk to the dentist about over-the-counter pain relievers to address any discomfort, and any specific recommended medications.

You may notice slight bleeding from your gums during the initial stages of healing. This is a normal response and should subside within a few days. If the gum bleeding is prolonged or heavy, it is important to contact your dentist. These excessive bleeding could be a sign there’s a complication.

You may notice that you are more sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks or it is uncomfortable to eat hard or crunch food. This symptom is temporary and typically diminishes within a week or two. The dentist may recommend using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to minimize discomfort during this period. Additionally, taking care to avoid extreme temperature foods and drinks can reduce irritation. Soft foods are easier on your gums and less likely to cause irritation. Consider incorporating options like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies during the first few days.

Proper oral hygiene is essential to a short healing process. Your dentist will likely provide aftercare instructions tailored to your specific needs, but gentle brushing and flossing are important to keep your teeth clean without aggravating sensitive areas. Antimicrobial mouth rinses may be recommended to reduce bacteria and promote healing in the treated areas.

It is also advisable to refrain from smoking during the recovery period. Both the suction created in your mouth and the nicotine can delay healing and increase the risk of complications and infection. If you are a smoker, this may be the time to consider quitting for good or using tools to minimize smoking.

Finally, the dentist may want to schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, ensure that your gums are healing as expected, and provide additional care if needed. These visits also offer an opportunity to discuss long-term strategies to maintain the health of your gums, such as adopting consistent oral hygiene practices and scheduling regular dental cleanings to prevent the need for additional deep cleanings in the future.

If you have more questions about deep cleaning or how it works as a part of your treatment plan to achieve better dental health, make an appointment with the dentist to see if a dental deep cleaning can help you.

How Long Does Deep Teeth Cleaning Take?