2. MISC.
3. Post-op Instructions

Post-op Instructions Periodontics

Following Scaling and Root planing

It is usually done in sections. One half of the mouth is cleaned in one session & you will have to come back for the other half. First the teeth & the gums are anaesthetized then the teeth are cleaned using a combination of ultrasonic & hand instruments. It is normal to experience cold & hot sensitivity after the appointment. Your teeth may even be sensitive to chewing. Your gums will be sore and may bleed.

Sometimes your Periodontist may advise the placement of an antibiotic (arestin, perio-chip) in the pocket if it greater than 4mm. In that case, patients should postpone brushing for 12 hours and avoid the use of interproximal cleaning devices (flossing) for 10 days. Also patients should avoid eating hard, crunchy or sticky foods for 1 week.

After the completion of treatment it is important to follow good home care which includes regular brushing, flossing, using a mouth rinse (prescription or over the counter).Your Periodontist may put you on a 3 -4 month follow up care. Failure to comply with it will return your gum condition back to square one. Regular follow up care will create an environment for the gums and bone to heal and will prevent further destruction. Gum disease is a silent disease and the importance of follow up care cannot be overemphasized.

Following Gum Surgery

Your periodontist will numb the surgical site prior to surgery. So you will be numb at least for 2-3 hours following surgery. Avoiding eating anything till the numbness goes away. Do not rinse your mouth the day of surgery. After 24 hours gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water or prescribed antibacterial rinse. Following surgery, the treated area could become tender, sore or swollen. Your teeth may be more sensitive to hot or cold. This will diminish considerably during the first few weeks after surgery. Your periodontist may prescribe a medication to relieve post-surgical discomfort. Antibiotics or antibacterial rinses also may be prescribed. If you take your medicine as directed and follow your periodontist's instructions, you probably will experience only minor discomfort. Your periodontist might have placed a periodontal dressing or pack (oral Bandage) on the surgical site. This aids in healing and protects the tooth roots from temperature changes. Most patients resume their normal routines the day after surgery. Restrict your diet to soft foods for few weeks and avoiding chewing on the side of surgery. Usually patients return for post-surgical treatment in a week or two. At this time, it may be necessary to remove any stitches (if non-restorable stitches are used) or periodontal dressing and cleanse the surgical area. Additional follow-up appointments will be required to evaluate your healing response and review proper oral hygiene procedures.