After Your Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal treatment that removes plaque, calculus, and bacterial toxins from below the gumline. This procedure helps the gum tissue heal and reattach to the tooth roots. Proper aftercare supports recovery and prevents reinfection.
What to Expect Immediately After Treatment
- Mild tenderness, gum sensitivity, or slight bleeding is normal for 24 to 72 hours.
- Avoid eating until the numbness from local anaesthesia has completely worn off.
- Stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours.
- Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated areas.
Managing Pain and Sensitivity
- Take ibuprofen or paracetamol as needed, following dosage instructions.
- Begin pain relief before the numbness wears off if advised by your dentist.
- Use a desensitising toothpaste for at least two weeks after treatment.
- Avoid very hot, cold, spicy, or acidic foods for several days.
Tooth sensitivity may temporarily increase as inflamed gum tissue heals and previously covered root surfaces become more exposed. This is a normal part of the healing process and typically improves within a few weeks.
Diet Recommendations
For the first 24 to 48 hours, avoid:
- Crunchy or abrasive foods (chips, popcorn, nuts)
- Sticky foods
- Acidic foods and beverages (citrus, soda)
- Alcohol
Stay well hydrated with room-temperature water.
Oral Hygiene After Deep Cleaning
Consistent oral hygiene is essential to prevent bacterial recolonisation and protect the healing gum tissue.
- Brush gently but thoroughly twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss carefully to keep the treated areas clean. Minor bleeding during brushing or flossing is normal in the first few days.
- Use any prescribed medicated mouth rinse (such as chlorhexidine) as directed.
- Rinse with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) two to three times daily if recommended.
- Do not skip brushing due to mild bleeding. Gentle, consistent cleaning promotes faster healing.
What to Avoid
- Smoking or vaping for at least 72 hours, and ideally for 7 days. Smoking impairs blood flow to the gums and significantly delays healing.
- Vigorous rinsing that could irritate healing tissue.
What Is Normal During Recovery
- Gum tenderness for several days
- Mild bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Temporary increase in tooth sensitivity
- Slight gum shrinkage as inflammation reduces (this is expected and indicates healing)
- Teeth may feel smoother and slightly more exposed at the gumline
Noticeable improvement typically occurs within one week of treatment.
When to Contact Your Dentist
- Persistent or heavy bleeding after 3 days
- Increasing pain instead of gradual improvement
- Swelling that worsens
- Pus discharge from the gums
- Fever or feeling unwell
If you notice any of these signs, contact ArtSmiles on the Gold Coast for review. Follow-up appointments after deep cleaning are important to assess healing and determine whether additional treatment is needed.