After undergoing a deep teeth cleaning, it’s natural to wonder what happens next, especially when it comes to your gums. Deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing, are an important step in fighting gum disease. The procedure is designed to clean deeply beneath your gum line, removing plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing just can’t reach. Because this cleaning is more involved than your routine visit, your gums will need some time to heal afterward. Understanding what gum healing looks like after a deep cleaning helps you feel more comfortable with the entire process and prepares you for an easier recovery.
What happens immediately after a deep cleaning?
When your deep cleaning is finished, it’s common to feel some tenderness and sensitivity around your gums. Your gums may even feel a little swollen and could occasionally bleed slightly, especially in the first few days. These reactions are completely normal and usually clear up within a couple of days. Your dentist might suggest taking an over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen to help manage any discomfort or mild pain.
What does the healing process look like?
Your gums typically begin healing quickly after your deep cleaning procedure. Within just a few days, any initial inflammation or tenderness should decrease. Within about one week, gums generally look and feel much healthier. They usually appear less red, less swollen, and more comfortable. While initial healing can happen fast, complete recovery can take several weeks, especially if the buildup and gum disease were severe. The extent of the procedure, like how much scaling and smoothing of the roots was required, can also impact healing times. Generally, gums fully heal within two to four weeks after deep cleaning.
What can I do to help my gums heal faster?
Taking the right steps at home will make a significant difference in how quickly your gums heal. Your dentist will provide you with instructions for care after the procedure, but in general you should:
- Stick to soft foods for a few days. Avoid anything crunchy or hard, as these can irritate your gums.
- Brush gently using a soft toothbrush. This protects your gums while they’re sensitive.
- Be careful flossing around the treated areas for a few days. Gentle flossing is recommended to prevent additional irritation or bleeding.
- Use warm saltwater rinses to help soothe gums, reduce swelling, and keep your mouth clean.
- Avoid using tobacco or alcohol, because these can slow down the healing process significantly.
Why does gum healing matter so much?
Proper healing after deep cleaning is important because it ensures the procedure effectively prevents gum disease from getting worse. If gums heal well, the risk of reinfection or further gum recession decreases. This allows your gums to reattach tightly to your teeth and keeps harmful bacteria from returning beneath the gum line. If gums don't heal well after a deep cleaning, it may leave you at risk for further problems, including more advanced gum disease, loose teeth, or infections. Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to confirm that your gums have fully healed and that no additional treatments are needed.