After Periodontal Therapy (Scaling & Root Planing)
What Is Periodontal Therapy?
Scaling and root planing — sometimes called a “deep cleaning” — is a non-surgical treatment for gum disease. Your dental team carefully removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline and smooths the tooth root surfaces so your gums can heal and reattach more effectively.
This treatment is a critical step in managing periodontal disease and protecting the long-term health of your teeth and jawbone. Proper after-care at home plays a major role in your recovery.
Your After-Care Instructions
Gum Care After Treatment
Begin the evening of your procedure
- Rinse tonight and tomorrow with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 oz. of warm water) to help soothe the gums and reduce irritation.
- Gently massage your gums where the tooth and gum meet using a soft-bristled toothbrush without toothpaste. This increases blood flow and helps speed healing.
- An electric or spin toothbrush may be used for gum massage if it is comfortable for you.
Pain & Inflammation Control
Managing discomfort after your deep cleaning
Recommended Dosage
Ibuprofen (Advil®) — 2 tablets (400 mg total) every 6 hours for the first day
Vitamin C Support for Healing
Helps promote healthy gum tissue repair
Recommended Supplement
Vitamin C — 1,000 mg daily (two 500 mg tablets)
Daily Oral Hygiene
Consistent home care is key to long-term results
- Brush at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be gentle around treated areas but don't skip them.
- Floss at least once daily to remove plaque between teeth where your toothbrush can't reach.
- Floss picks are acceptable and effective if traditional floss is difficult for you.
What to Expect During Recovery
Normal symptoms and your healing timeline
Normal
Mild tenderness and gum sensitivity for a few days after treatment.
Normal
Slight bleeding when brushing or flossing in the first 1–2 days.
Normal
Temporary tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
Improving
Symptoms should steadily improve over the first week. Most patients feel much better within 5–7 days.
When to Contact Our Office Immediately
Most symptoms are normal and temporary. However, please call us right away if you experience any of the following:
- Heavy or persistent bleeding that does not improve after 24 hours
- Swelling that worsens after 48 hours instead of improving
- Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing
- Severe pain that is not relieved by ibuprofen as directed
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection (pus or foul taste)
- Any symptom that concerns you — when in doubt, please call
When in doubt, call us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take gums to heal after scaling and root planing?
Is it normal for gums to bleed after deep cleaning?
Can I eat normally after scaling and root planing?
Why should I take Vitamin C after periodontal therapy?
How soon can I brush and floss after deep cleaning?
When should I call the dentist after periodontal therapy?
How long does it take gums to heal after scaling and root planing?
Most patients notice improvement within a few days. Mild tenderness and sensitivity typically subside within 5 to 7 days. Full gum tissue healing and reattachment can take several weeks. Following your home care instructions carefully — including salt water rinses, gentle brushing, and daily flossing — plays a major role in how quickly you recover.
Is it normal for gums to bleed after deep cleaning?
Yes, slight bleeding is normal during the first 1 to 2 days after scaling and root planing. This should gradually decrease as your gums heal. Gentle brushing and salt water rinses help your gums recover. If bleeding is heavy, does not improve after a few days, or gets worse, contact our office at 903-583-7786.
Can I eat normally after scaling and root planing?
You can eat after your procedure, but it is best to avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, and acidic foods for the first 24 to 48 hours, as these can irritate sensitive gum tissue. Stick to soft, lukewarm foods until tenderness subsides. Resume your normal diet as comfort allows.
Why should I take Vitamin C after periodontal therapy?
Vitamin C supports your body’s natural tissue repair process and helps promote healthy gum healing. Your dentist may recommend taking 1,000 mg daily — split into two 500 mg doses with meals — after periodontal therapy. Always take Vitamin C with food for best absorption, not on an empty stomach or with only coffee or liquids.
How soon can I brush and floss after deep cleaning?
You should continue brushing and flossing the same day, but be gentle around the treated areas. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid aggressive scrubbing. Floss at least once daily — floss picks are acceptable if they are easier for you. Consistent, gentle oral hygiene is essential for long-term periodontal health.
When should I call the dentist after periodontal therapy?
Contact our office at 903-583-7786 if you experience heavy or persistent bleeding that does not improve, severe pain not relieved by ibuprofen, swelling that worsens after 48 hours, fever or signs of infection such as pus or a foul taste, or any symptoms that concern you. When in doubt, it is always better to call.
Your Gum Health Matters to Us
If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery — no matter how small they may seem — our team at Bonham Sunshine Dental is here to help. Proper home care today means healthier gums for years to come.
