If your gums are bleeding more often or you see gum redness, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing. It’s typically a first-line defense against gum disease. The procedure itself is tolerable because dentists use anesthesia to keep your teeth and gums numb, but you may have pain afterward. Read on to learn what you can do to manage pain after scaling and root planing.
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a term dentists use for a deep dental cleaning. This treatment is different from your regular annual cleanings because it goes deeper, reaching below your gums.
Dentists recommend it for patients who have early signs of gum disease, such as gum redness, bleeding, recession or slight bone loss.
Your dentist will begin by removing plaque and tartar buildup above the gumline with a scaler. Then the dentist cleans and smooths the root surfaces of your teeth. This cleans the surface and makes it smoother, so there’s a better chance of gum reattachment.
Why Do Gums Hurt After Treatment?
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical option for gum disease treatment. Despite that, your gums will remain sore or tender for about 2 to 5 days after the treatment is complete.
Mild achiness after the procedure is completely normal. This happens because the areas deep below your gumline are cleaned. Your teeth may also feel a bit more sensitive for a couple of days.
These symptoms are temporary and typically resolve within a week with proper care.
What Can You Do to Relieve Pain After Scaling and Root Planing?
Take pain medications
Dentists typically prescribe a painkiller to ease the discomfort that occurs after scaling and root planing. You can also take an OTC painkiller like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, but it’s still best to consult your dentist first.
Place a cold compress
You may notice slight gum swelling. To reduce it, place a cold compress on the outside of your mouth directly over the area with swelling. Do this a few times a day.
Watch what you eat and drink
While your gums are healing after treatment, you’ll have to be more mindful of your diet. Start with soft foods, preferably at room temperature. If you eat anything too cold or hot, you’ll likely have a stinging sensation in your teeth.
Avoid hot and acidic drinks like tea and coffee until your gums begin to heal.
Brush and floss very carefully
Dentists suggest waiting about 24 hours after treatment before brushing your teeth. When you brush, be very gentle and don’t use excessive force. Start flossing after a day or two when your gums no longer feel tender.
Rinse with saltwater
Saltwater rinses are very helpful after deep cleaning. Just mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of water and gently rinse your mouth with it.
Final Words
Mild pain after scaling and root planing is to be expected. It lasts shortly and is manageable with at-home care. If the pain or bleeding worsens, reach out to our dentists at John H. Krell D.D.S. right away. Call (713) 877-1775 to schedule your appointment.