Infections of the gums can be just as detrimental to tooth health as actual tooth decay. In fact, if left untreated, these problems can worsen and spread to the underlying bone structures, causing tooth loss and systemic infections.
When periodontal disease exists, root scaling and planing can provide an acceptable, long-term solution, especially if these treatments are implemented early on.
During this procedure, both manual, hand-held instruments and ultrasonic tools are used to remove tartar, plaque and
biofilm
that have accumulated around and under the gum line. This creates a clean, fresh surface to which the
gums can effectively adhere.
After one or more treatments, most people will experience far less redness, inflammation and pain when brushing, flossing and chewing. Following are five expert tips for maintaining these improvements through proper aftercare.
1. Brush Gently
Moderate
discomfort and light bleeding are common
after a root scaling treatment. To minimize pain while brushing, be sure to use a soft-bristled tooth brush and gentle, circular
strokes. Cleaning the teeth will likely take more time given that you
ll have to move slowly and deliberately.
Three to five days after your last root scaling treatment, both bleeding and discomfort will start to abate. It is still a good idea to continue using a soft toothbrush, however, given that hard bristles and aggressive brushing can cause the gums to draw further back from the teeth.
2. Use Wax-Coated Floss
The teeth should be flossed at least twice per day using a wax-coated floss.
Unwaxed
floss can exacerbate the gums after root scaling and may cause additional bleeding.
In addition to morning and night, the teeth should also be flossed after any meal or snack in which food particles have become noticeably trapped in between the teeth.
When post-treatment soreness makes flossing too uncomfortable, it is also possible to use a water pick to clean between the teeth.
3. Soothe the Gums with Warm Salt Water
Create a mild, salt water rinse to soothe the gums, particularly after heavy meals. Once a root planing procedure has been performed, the
teeth may become more sensitive to sweet, tacky foods and extremes of hot and cold.
Salt water can free up debris without the need for additional brushing. It can also alleviate redness and mild inflammation.
4. Limit Snacks
Good oral care involves the implementation of a balanced diet and eating plan. Each time you eat or drink beverages other than water, you are exposing your mouth to more substances that can alter its pH and create the ideal environment for bacteria.
Limit snacking to just once or twice per day while maintaining regular meals. Also, be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly after eating or drinking, especially during the first few days after your root scaling treatment.
5. Stay on Track with Dental Appointments
Make sure to schedule regular dental visits after your root scaling or planing treatment. Many people will need to have several scaling treatments before they experience any major differences in their overall gum health.
Regular checkups and cleanings will limit tartar and plaque buildup and ensure long-term post-treatment success.
Root scaling gives people a second chance at maintaining
healthy gums. After these procedures, proper self-care is critical. With regular brushing and flossing, a balanced diet and mild salt water rinses, you can keep the gums and teeth clean and healthy over the long term.
For more tips on how to care for your teeth after root scaling or planing, visit our website today.
