After a deep cleaning:
To minimize the discomfort and encourage proper healing following your scaling and root planning, follow these instructions:
- After the procedure, take acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Advil®) every four to six hours over the next two days if needed for post operative discomfort.
- Rinse your mouth with a salt water solution (1/2 teaspoon salt + 1/2 teaspoon soda + 8 ounces warm water) after meals and before bed for the next 3 days.
- Use a soft toothbrush at least two times a day. Be gentle and clean thoroughly. Slight bleeding may occur while brushing as the tissues begin to heal.
- Avoid strong spicy seasonings, and hard crunchy for the next few days.
- Reduce frequency of smoking or vaping as much as possible over the next 3 days to optimize healing.
- As the tissues heal, some temporary sensitivity to cold may occur. To manage sensitivity, use a desensitizing toothpaste (such as Sensodyne®), or fluoride gel (such as Prevident®- ask your provider for a prescription if you don't generally use this product) for 2 weeks.
- To keep your teeth and gums as clean as possible, use any other oral hygiene aids that have been recommended (Peridex® mouthrinse, Stellalife rinse, electric brush, Proxabrush®, Prevident®, floss, floss threader- etc).
Please contact us if discomfort is not diminishing day by day, or if swelling is observed 3 days after your visit.
Periodontal Maintenance
Following a deep cleaning for the treatment of gum disease, your next preventative care visit will include periodontal maintenance as a means of cleaning the teeth and gums. Gum disease is a chronic condition requiring ongoing maintenance. It involves hundreds of strains of various pathogenic bacteria that invade the gums, and while this bacteria cannot be completely eradicated, bacterial populations can be kept below a clinically significant level. Removing tartar that collects below the gumline and provides housing to bacteria that destroys the connection between the tooth and bone helps to maintain long term gum health.
How does this differ from a regular routine cleaning?
Differences Between Periodontal Maintenance and Regular Tooth Cleaning
The primary differences between periodontal maintenance and regular cleaning lie in the focus, frequency, and techniques involved in each procedure.
- Regular cleaning, also known as prophylaxis or a dental cleaning, is typically performed every six months for individuals with healthy gums and no signs of gum disease. During a regular cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from the teeth. They will also polish the teeth to make them smooth and shiny, followed by a fluoride treatment to strengthen the enamel.
- On the other hand, periodontal maintenance is a more intensive cleaning procedure designed for patients who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease. Periodontal maintenance appointments are usually scheduled every three to four months to prevent the progression of the disease and maintain the health of the gums and bone that supports the teeth. During these visits, the dentist or hygienist will perform a deeper cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from both the teeth and roots, extending below the gumline. They also conduct a thorough examination of the gums to check for signs of inflammation or infection and track the improvement or progression of gum disease.
Steps during Periodontal Maintenance:
1.) Supragingival cleaning: The hygienist will thoroughly and carefully clean the area above the gum line to remove plaque and calculus.
2.) Subgingival cleaning: The hygienist will thoroughly and carefully clean the area below the gum line to remove plaque and calculus.
3.) Root Planing: The tooth root is smoothed to eliminate remaining bacteria.
4.) Medication: Following scaling and root planing, an antibiotic may be placed in the gum pockets to promote healing.
5.) Laser therapy: Diode lasers may be used to promote healing in areas of remaining inflammation.
6.) X-ray and examination: X-rays reveal the extent of bone loss, and identify areas that may require further attention.
Don’t Skip Periodontal Maintenance
In summary, while regular cleaning focuses on maintaining the overall oral health of individuals with healthy gums, periodontal maintenance is specifically tailored for patients with gum disease, to prevent its progression and maintain gum health. The frequency and techniques used during each procedure differ to address the specific needs of the patient.
