A dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure recommended to treat gum disease and prevent its progression. Unlike a standard cleaning, it goes below the gum line to remove tartar, plaque, and bacteria from the pockets that have formed around your teeth. If you have this procedure scheduled, you might be wondering how to prepare and what to expect afterward.
As your trusted Edmond dentist, we at Eagle Dental want you to feel confident and informed. Proper preparation and aftercare are key to a smooth procedure and a quick recovery. Following these guidelines will help you get the best possible results and protect your oral health long-term.
Before Your Dental Deep Cleaning
1. Do Discuss Your Health History
Be sure to provide our Edmond dentist with a complete medical history. This includes any medications you’re taking (even over-the-counter ones), existing health conditions like heart problems or diabetes, and any allergies. This information helps us keep the procedure safe for you.
2. Don’t Skip Your Regular Oral Hygiene
Continue to brush and floss as you normally would leading up to your appointment. Keeping your mouth as clean as possible makes the deep cleaning process more efficient.
3. Do Ask Questions
If you feel anxious or have questions about the procedure, please ask us! Our Edmond dentist can explain each step, discuss dental sedation options if needed, and address any concerns you have. Understanding the process can significantly reduce your anxiety.
4. Don’t Consume Alcohol
Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours before your appointment. Alcohol can dry out your mouth and may interfere with the local anesthetic used to numb the area.
5. Do Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Being well-rested can help you feel more relaxed during your appointment. Plus, rest can help your body be better prepared to heal after the procedure. Try to get a full night of sleep before your procedure day.
6. Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco
Smoking can hinder the healing process, especially for gums. Our Edmond dentist strongly recommends avoiding tobacco products before your procedure. Consider this an opportunity to quit for good to benefit your overall oral and general health!
8. Do Eat a Light Meal
We know that you may be a little nervous, which could affect your appetite, but it’s a good idea to eat a light meal a couple of hours before your appointment unless we tell you otherwise. Since your mouth may be numb and sensitive afterward, you might not feel like eating for a while.
9. Don’t Hesitate to Reschedule If You’re Sick
If you develop a cold, flu, or other illness, it’s best to reschedule your appointment. Your body will be better equipped to heal when it isn’t already fighting off another infection.
After Your Dental Deep Cleaning
1. Do Take Pain Relievers as Needed
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage any discomfort after the anesthetic wears off. Follow the dosage instructions on the package or any specific advice from our Edmond dentist.
2. Don’t Drink Hot or Extremely Cold Beverages
Your teeth may be sensitive to temperature extremes immediately following the procedure. Stick to lukewarm or room-temperature drinks for the first day or two. Let that piping hot pumpkin spice latte cool down and chill that chai instead of icing it.
3. Do Stick to Soft Foods
For the first 24-48 hours, stick to a diet of soft foods. Good seasonal options include berry smoothies, mashed sweet potatoes, and squash soups. This prevents irritation to your sensitive gums.
4. Don’t Eat Hard, Crunchy, or Sticky Foods
Avoid foods like chips, nuts, popcorn, and sticky candies for at least a few days. These can get lodged in the healing gum pockets and cause irritation or infection.
5. Do Rinse with Salt Water
Gently rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) two to three times a day can promote healing and reduce inflammation.
6. Don’t Use a Straw
The sucking motion created when using a straw can dislodge blood clots that are essential for healing. Our Edmond dentist recommends avoiding straws for at least 48 hours.
7. Do Resume Brushing and Flossing Gently
You can resume your brushing routine the night of your procedure, but be very gentle. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and be careful around the treated areas. Your gums may bleed a little at first, but this should subside as they heal. You can skip flossing for the first 24 hours to avoid any extra irritation.
8. Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco Products
As mentioned before, tobacco use severely impedes your body’s ability to heal. We strongly advise against smoking for at least 72 hours after your deep cleaning, and ideally, for good.
9. Do Attend Your Follow-Up Appointment
We’ll likely schedule a follow-up visit to Eagle Dental to check on your healing and measure the gum pockets. This appointment is essential to monitor your progress and check that the treatment was successful.
10. Don’t Ignore Severe Pain or Swelling
While some discomfort is normal, severe or worsening pain, excessive bleeding, or significant swelling are not. If you experience any of these symptoms, call us right away. We even offer emergency dental care if necessary.
Do Get Started Today with a Visit to Eagle Dental
Bleeding gums, bad breath, and long-looking teeth are not something to ignore. If you’ve been dealing with gum issues, today is the day to act. Book your dental deep cleaning with our Edmond dentist to not only clean your smile but also to get support through the entire process. We’re here before, during, and after. Schedule your deep cleaning now.
