Scaling and root planing is a procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line in order to reduce inflammation and promote the adhesion of the gum tissue to the tooth’s roots. After scaling and root planing, there are certain post-op protocols for you to follow.
Post-Op Protocols for Scaling and Root Planing:
What can I expect after Scaling and Root Planing?
After scaling and root planing, you will need to avoid physical exercise, drinking through a straw, sucking motions, smoking, drinking alcohol, and eating hot, spicy foods.
When can I eat?
You can eat as soon as your mouth regains feeling. During your procedure, a local anesthetic will be used to numb your mouth and keep you comfortable. This will cause your lips, teeth, and tongue to remain numb for up to five hours after your procedure. The amount of time you will remain numb depends upon how much anesthetic was used, where it was used, and how fast your body metabolizes it. Because you can do damage to your mouth trying to eat when numb, we recommend waiting to eat until you have feeling in your mouth. Additionally, you will need to avoid foods that are hot or spicy, as well as avoid alcoholic beverages.
How do I manage my pain?
You can manage your pain with 3 tabs of 200mg Advil and 1 tab of 500mg Tylenol.
How do I care for the affected area?
To care for the affected area, you will need to adopt a gentle brushing and flossing technique for the first 3 days, then return to your usual dental routine. Additionally, you will need to rinse your mouth three times a day with a warm salt water rinse. A warm salt water rinse is composed of one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. You will want to swish this mixture around inside your mouth, over your gums, then spit.
