Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) Aftercare

What Was Done

Understanding Your Procedure

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes hardened plaque (tartar/calculus) from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces to help the gums reattach. It is the primary treatment for gum disease (periodontitis). Some tenderness after treatment is completely normal.

Immediately After

What is Normal

Tenderness

Gum soreness for 2–5 days is expected. It should gradually improve each day.

Mild Bleeding

Light bleeding or pink-tinged saliva for 24–48 hours is normal during brushing or rinsing.

Sensitivity

Teeth may be sensitive to hot, cold, or sweets for several weeks. This typically resolves over time.

Gum Recession

Gums may appear to have receded slightly as swelling reduces. This is the gums returning to a healthy position.

Oral Hygiene

Caring for Your Gums After Treatment

Continue brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be gentle around treated areas.
Floss daily — even if your gums bleed slightly at first. Stopping flossing allows plaque to accumulate.
Rinse with warm salt water (½ tsp salt in 8 oz warm water) 2–3 times daily for the first few days.
Use any medicated rinse prescribed by your dentist as directed.
Avoid smoking — it significantly impairs gum healing and increases the risk of treatment failure.

Diet

Eating After Deep Cleaning

Comfortable Choices

Soft foods for the first 1–2 days
Lukewarm soups
Yogurt, smoothies
Mashed or well-cooked foods
Lukewarm (not hot) drinks

Avoid Initially

Very hot foods and drinks
Very cold foods if sensitive
Crunchy or hard foods
Spicy foods
Alcohol (especially if on antibiotics)

Long-Term

Maintaining Your Results

Deep cleaning treats gum disease — but maintenance is essential to prevent it returning.

Attend your periodontal maintenance appointments as scheduled (typically every 3–4 months after deep cleaning).
Brush for a full 2 minutes, twice daily, using a soft-bristled brush.
Floss every day without exception.
Consider an electric toothbrush — they are more effective at plaque removal.
If you smoke, discuss cessation with your doctor — smoking is the single biggest risk factor for gum disease progression.
Report any returning symptoms (bleeding, swelling, looseness) to us promptly.

Warning Signs

When to Contact Us

Call us if you experience

Significant swelling that is worsening after 48 hours
Fever or feeling generally unwell
Severe pain that is not controlled with prescribed pain relief
Heavy bleeding that does not settle
Sensitivity so severe it disrupts daily activities

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Important Information

The guidance on this page is intended for general educational purposes and for patients of Grove Court Dental Care. It is not a substitute for direct professional evaluation, diagnosis or treatment.

If you have ongoing symptoms, significant pain, swelling, or any concern about your oral health, please contact our office directly or consult a registered dentist. Do not rely solely on written guidance when your condition is changing or uncertain.

Please do not submit detailed clinical, medical, or confidential information through website forms or general communication channels. For sensitive matters, contact us directly by phone, email, or in person.

Deep Cleaning Aftercare