Scaling and root planing dental procedure illustration showing tartar removal and root surface treatment.

Scaling and Root Planing Post-Operative Instructions

You have now completed your Periodontal Root Planing Treatment, however, this is only the first step to a lifetime of healthy gums and sturdy bone support around your teeth.

It is important to closely monitor your periodontal disease. In order to accomplish this, you will need to be seen every three or four months for the next 12 months. These appointments will be for scaling and polishing, reviewing your home care, carefully observing your periodontal status. We realize many insurance plans cover only two cleanings per year, however, you cannot afford to let your dental plan dictate your dental health care. Remember, many adults lose their teeth to periodontal disease – not tooth decay!

We cannot overemphasize the importance of your home care, which requires daily brushing and flossing! Your periodontal health cannot be maintained without good home care. Our goal is to provide you with the best that dentistry has to offer and to work with you for excellent oral health. Please do not hesitate to call us if you have any questions.

Dental Implants Post-Operative Instructions

The following instructions will help you in the proper care and maintenance of your dental implant.
  1. Do not rinse your mouth vigorously during the first 24 hours after the surgery.
  2. Do not use mouthwash.
  3. Do not smoke. Smoking compromises the healing.
  4. If there is swelling, apply an ice bag or chopped ice wrapped in a towel to the facial areaover the surgery site for 20 minutes, and on and off for 4 to 5 hours.
  5. If there is bleeding, bite gently on gauze for 1 hour. Some bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours.
  6. To minimize bleeding, sleep with an extra pillow for the first night after surgery.
  7. Keep the implant and your mouth clean. For the first few days, be gentle around the implants, but do not avoid brushing there. Brush after every meal.
  8. Avoid hot and cold extremes on the day of the surgery, especially if you are still numb. Maintain a nutritious diet as your body needs nutrition so it can heal.
  9. Drink plenty of fluids.
  10. Avoid strenuous activity on the day of surgery.
Our goal is to provide you with the best that dentistry has to offer and to work with you for excellent oral health. Please do not hesitate to call if you have any questions about your dental implant recovery.

Post-Operative Extraction Instructions

The following instructions will help you in the care of your tooth extraction. Remember: Do NOT rinse your mouth today and do NOT smoke for 72 hours

Tomorrow

Rinse your mouth gently every 3 to 4 hours, especially after meals. Rinse with ¼ teaspoon of salt in a warm glass of water. Continue rinsing for several days.

What Not To Do

To help your extraction area heal, it is important to maintain the integrity of the blood clot covering the extraction site.
  1. Do not use straws. The suction they create can pull the blood clot free.
  2. Do not do any heavy lifting or strenuous activity as the blood clot may become dislodged in doing so. You may return to regular activity as tolerated.
  3. Do not use mouthwash for 3 to 4 days. Some may contain alcohol that could disrupt the blood clot.
  4. Do not rinse or spit vigorously. You may dislodge the blood clot in doing so.

Bleeding

Following extractions, some bleeding is to be expected. If persistent bleeding occurs, place a moist gauze or a moist tea bag over the extraction site and bite down firmly for 10 to 20 minutes.

Swelling

Apply an ice bag or chopped ice wrapped in a towel to the facial area over the extraction site for 20 to 30 minutes, and on and off for 4 to 5 hours.

Pain

In most cases, the doctor will prescribe pain medication. Use as directed. Upon finishing the prescription, if you are still experiencing mild to average pain, use any aspirin-free (i.e. Tylenol, Advil, etc.) medication you like for pain management.

Food

A soft diet is advisable for the first 72 hours. You may return to your regular diet as tolerated.

Bony Edges

Small, sharp, bony fragments may work through the gums during healing. These are not roots. If annoying, please call our office to make an appointment for simple removal.

Our goal is to provide you with the best that dentistry has to offer and to work with you for excellent oral health. Please do not hesitate to call if you have any questions or concerns regarding your extraction.

For Emergencies: Call (905) 876-9047

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