Patient Information Following Scaling and Root Planing 1.
The purpose of scaling and root planing is to remove all deposits of calculus (tarter) and plaque on the teeth below the gumline and
to methodically plane, or smoothen, the root surfaces themselves. Scaling and root planing helps the gums to reattach to the
tooth roots. Oftentimes, this will reduce bleeding of the gums and cause the crevices (pockets) around the teeth to become less
deep. This will allow you to better clean these important areas. 2. After
scaling and root planing is completed, your anesthetic should wear off in 1 1/2 to 4 hours. Sometimes a longer acting
anesthetic is used, which can last 8 to 15 hours. You may experience slight discomfort around the teeth for several days and
increased sensitivity to hot and cold (sometimes sweets) for up to four to six weeks. This is normal. You should begin to
notice improvements in sensitivity within two weeks. 3. There are several things
you can do to help reduce or prevent tooth sensitivity and hasten healing following scaling and root planing. These include:
a. Taking over-the-counter pain medication (Tylenol, Advil) for any discomfort.
b. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water today, and maintaining a soft diet for the first 48 hours.
c. Rinsing with warm salt water if your gums are sore and tender; 1 tsp. Salt in one cup of warm
water. d. Brushing and flossing gently today even if your gums are tender.
A gentle fluoridated tartar control toothpaste is best. A fluoride gel or rinse may be prescribed as well to help reduce
tooth sensitivity. e. In addition, we may prescribe a chlorhexidine rinse
which will help reduce gum inflammation and bleeding by killing the harmful bacteria. Rinse twice daily for 30 seconds,
after breakfast and before bed.
4. The benefits of scaling and root planing are many. However, this procedure is
sometimes not sufficient to stop the destruction cased by periodontal disease. We will re-evaluate your status in 6 weeks, and
again in 3 months. We will then be able to determine if further treatment (surgery, additional scaling, antibiotic therapy,
etc.) will be needed to control the disease.
***Call our office if any unusual symptoms occur.*** |
