Tenderness and swelling of the gums, and soreness in the jaw, are expected. Ibuprofen/anti-inflammatory medications are recommended to treat this discomfort.
Avoid eating anything on the area being treated for two hours or until the dental anesthetic has worn off completely.
Avoid any hard “chippy” foods such as tortilla chips, potato chips, popcorn, or seeds for the next several days.
You may notice “spacing” between your teeth that wasn’t there before. This is because we cleaned away calculus and debris.
To help soothe the area, rinse your mouth 2-3 times a day with warm salt water rinses. Use one teaspoon of salt for every 3 ounces of water. If you are prescribed Peridex/Chlorhexidine, use as directed.
Resume your homecare regimen of brushing twice a day and daily flossing immediately, but be gentle with the area recently treated. Your gum health must be maintained with proper homecare, as instructed, and regular dental visits.
Refrain from smoking for 24 to 48 hours after scaling and root planing. Tobacco will delay healing of the tissues.