Post Operative Instructions

Post Care Scaling, Root Planing, Laser

Scaling and root therapy is a procedure that involves removing bacterial plaque and calculus (tartar) from the root surface below the gum line with hand instruments and ultrasonic scalers.

Period until laser therapy is used following scaling and root planing to remove diseased tissue within the pocket, kill bacteria and reduce the number of bacteremias. (bacteria within the bloodstream).

The goal of this treatment is to allow reattachment of the gingival tissues to the clean root surface and shrink the periodontal pockets to levels that can be maintained by daily flossing and brushing. The following guidelines are recommended for you to maximize healing and minimize discomfort.

Refrain from eating until the anesthesia has worn off. (About two hours).

Avoid for the first 24 hours:
-Vigorous physical exercise, but you may return to work.
-Do not smoke. It is better to rooferring for 48 hours as it could compromise your treatment and delay healing.
-Drinking alcoholic beverages will negatively affect the healing process.
-Avoid food with extreme temperatures, or crunchy foods.
-Avoid strong mouthwash that contains alcohol.
-Avoid flossing, but brush gently the day of your procedure.

What to do:
-You may take a non-aspirin analgesic to relieve any tenderness or discomfort. 600 mg of ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) and 500 mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol)
-Eat a soft diet for today. You may chew on the opposite side of the treated area until it is comfortable to chew normally. Rinse with Chlorhexidine twice a day until all quadrants of your mouth have been treated.
-Brush your teeth very lightly in the treated area the first night. Floss lightly for the next two days and gradually increase to normal force within one week.
-After flossing and brushing, rinse with chlorhexidine if prescribed, for at least 60 seconds. Do this once in the morning and once in the evening.-Teeth may possibly be sensitive temporarily too hot and cold.
-The laser aids to repair and regenerate the tissues: during the healing process you may notice “tissue tags” at the Ginger bowl margins. This is normal and no need to be concerned if you develop any.
-Several days after treatment your gums should begin to appear pinker, less swollen and will bleed less when you floss. These are signs of healing and improving periodontal health.

Your Home Care is directly related to the healing process. It is very important to keep your mouth as plaque free as possible to obtain the best healing results.

Perio Protect Trays Instructions & Care

Instructions:
-Place or hold the Perio Protect Trays “Teeth side up”- facing towards you.
-Apply a thin ribbon of the prescribed hydrogen peroxide Perio Gel across the tooth/gum indentations.
-If needed, use the small brush (or Q-tip) to evenly distribute the medication throughout the tooth indentations
-Place the tray into your mouth so that the tray covers all your teeth and fully seats in place. Spit out any excess medication. The Perio Protect Trays should comfortably and completely seat against your gums. They will feel snug.
-Wear the trays for the first time prescribed- Once per day for 15-20 minutes
-Remove the trays after the prescribed time has elapsed. Brush your teeth/ rinse with water to remove any excess medication.
-After every treatment, rinse your trays with COLD water. You can also lightly brush the trays with a soft toothbrush and hydrogen peroxide. 
-Gently towel-dry the Perio Protect Trays and place them into the storage container.

Points To Remember:
-DO NOT use hot water, store in an area subject to hot temperatures, boil, soak in bleach, or soak in mouthwash ( can discolor appliance).
-It is very important to remember to continue to brush, floss, and use any other oral hygiene aids that are recommended by your hygienist or Dr. Sidhu.
-If you begin to taste more of the medication over time please contact our office
-If you have any questions or concerns please contact us.
-Remember to bring your trays with you to your dental appointments.