Comfort Care After Scaling And Root Planing Treatment

Scaling and root planing (SRP)—often called deep cleaning—is a highly effective, non-surgical procedure designed to treat gum disease by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line. While this treatment is essential for restoring gum health, it’s normal to experience some tenderness, soreness, or mild discomfort afterward.

At McLevin Dental Clinic, we focus not only on delivering effective periodontal care but also on ensuring your recovery is comfortable and stress-free. This guide outlines how to manage discomfort and support healing after scaling and root planing.

What to Expect After Scaling and Root Planing

Mild gum soreness: Common for 1–3 days after treatment.

Tooth sensitivity: Especially to cold, hot, or sweet foods for up to a week.

Slight swelling or tenderness: In the treated areas.

Temporary bleeding: When brushing or flossing for the first 24–48 hours.

These symptoms are completely normal and typically resolve with proper care.

Comfort Care Tips After Scaling and Root Planing

1. Use Warm Saltwater Rinses

Mix ½ teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water.

Rinse gently 2–3 times daily to:

Reduce bacteria

Soothe tender gums

Support faster healing

2. Manage Sensitivity with Desensitizing Toothpaste

Use toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth (e.g., Sensodyne or Pronamel).

Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush using gentle, circular motions.

3. Control Swelling and Discomfort with Cold Compresses

Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face near the treated area for the first 24 hours.

Use 15-minute intervals (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) to reduce swelling and numb discomfort.

4. Stick to a Soft Diet for 1–2 Days

Choose soothing foods like:

Yogurt

Applesauce

Mashed potatoes

Soft pasta

Smoothies (without straws)

Scrambled eggs

Avoid crunchy, spicy, sticky, or hard foods that may irritate tender gums.

5. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief If Needed

Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and relieve soreness.

Follow dosage instructions as recommended.

6. Maintain Gentle But Thorough Oral Hygiene

Continue brushing and flossing to remove bacteria and prevent further plaque buildup.

Avoid brushing directly on sore gum pockets with too much pressure.

A water flosser can be helpful for gentle cleaning between teeth.

7. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking delays gum healing and significantly increases the risk of gum disease returning.

Alcohol dries oral tissues and interferes with tissue healing.

Avoid both for at least 7–10 days, ideally permanently.

8. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to help maintain saliva flow, flush bacteria, and support overall healing.

When to Contact McLevin Dental Clinic

Reach out to us if you experience:

Bleeding that doesn’t subside after 24 hours.

Swelling that worsens instead of improving after 3 days.

Severe pain that isn’t relieved with medication.

Signs of infection such as:

Pus

Foul odor

Fever

Increased gum redness

Healing Timeline After Scaling and Root Planing

First 24–48 hours: Mild soreness and sensitivity; gums begin calming down.

Days 3–5: Swelling and tenderness decrease noticeably.

1 week: Gums begin reattaching to teeth; inflammation reduces significantly.

2–3 weeks: Full gum healing for most patients, with visibly healthier, tighter gums.

Maintaining Gum Health After Healing

Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Floss daily to keep plaque and bacteria away from the gum line.

Use antimicrobial or fluoride rinses if recommended.

Attend periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months if you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease.

Protect Your Gums and Smile with Confidence

Scaling and root planing is a vital step toward reversing gum disease and protecting your oral health. With simple comfort care strategies—like saltwater rinses, soft foods, gentle brushing, and avoiding irritants—you can recover quickly and enjoy the benefits of healthier gums and fresher breath.

At McLevin Dental Clinic, our team is here to guide you through every stage of your gum health journey, offering supportive, compassionate care from treatment to full recovery.

Schedule Your Post-Treatment Check-Up Today

Have questions about your recovery after scaling and root planing or ready for your next check-up? Contact McLevin Dental Clinic today. Our experienced team is ready to help you heal comfortably and maintain a healthy, confident smile.