Scaling & Root Planing (non-surgical) Instructions

Brushing/ Flossing

  • Gently brush and floss the treated areas.
  • The areas will be sore, tender and may slightly bleed during brushing and flossing, however, it is important to keep the area clean during healing

Eating / Chewing

  • Avoid crunchy and spicy foods as necessary

Discomfort

  • Once the anesthetic wears off, you may experience discomfort and cold sensitivity
  • Take as needed Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Tylenol

 Bleeding

  • It is normal to experience slight bleeding for the first 2-3 days
  • Some medications can increase the amount of bleeding such as aspirin, plavix, coumadin

Working

  • You may not want return to work the day of the procedure due to possible discomfort and slight bleeding

Exercising

  • Avoid exercising or heavy lifting for 1 day

Smoking

  • Smoking can delay the healing process

1 Month Follow-up Appointment

  • An appointment will be scheduled for you to return approximately 1 month following your second root planing procedure
  • This appointment will include probing, scaling, polishing, and fluoride

Back to Procedure