Post-Op Instructions

Shelton Family Dental in Baltimore, MD has helped many patients achieve their best smile through our high-quality dental services. We are dedicated to providing the best care possible, and we do that by listening to our patients and their needs. Once we know your dental health goals, we can individualize a treatment plan for you. To help keep your smile bright and healthy, we include instructions for how to care for your teeth and gums after periodontal therapy.

Deep Cleaning Instructions

How long will I be numb?

Your lips, teeth, cheek, and/or tongue may be numb for several hours after the procedure. To avoid injury, you should avoid any chewing and hot beverages until the numbness has completely worn off. It is very easy to bite or burn your tongue, cheek, or lip while you are numb.

Is it normal for my gums or jaw to be sore?

Irritation to the gum tissue can occur from dental work. Rinsing your mouth 2-3 times per day with ½ tsp of warm saltwater can help alleviate discomfort. Injection sites can be sore for several days after your appointment. Over-the-counter pain medications work well to alleviate the tenderness.

Is it normal for my gums to bleed when I brush & floss?

You may encounter some bleeding while brushing & flossing. It is important to continue gentle brushing with soft toothbrush and flossing even if bleeding occurs. As healing progressing, the bleeding will gradually reduce or disappear.

Why do I now have spaces between my teeth?

After removal of plaque and tartar buildup, it is common to have spaced between your teeth and gum tissue. Some spaces may appear as “black triangles” near the gum area, whereas other spaces may separate the teeth. Flossing and brushing regularly will keep the spaces from building up with plaque and tartar.

Is it normal for my teeth to be sensitive?

Normal healing results in some tissue tightening and shrinkage which may expose more tooth structure leading to sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweets. This is common side effect and usually diminishes with time.

Can I do anything for my sensitivity?

Continue to brush & floss to remove plaque bacteria that produces acids which contributes to tooth sensitivity. Brushing with a “sensitivity toothpaste” will help alleviate the sensitivity over a 2-4 week time frame. If sensitivity lasts longer, contact the office and special fluoride rinses or toothpastes may be prescribed.

When do I come back after my “Deep Cleaning”?

Normally 30 days after your “deep cleaning,” you will be brought back to the office for reevaluation of the pocketing. At this time, we will recommend the time frame of your subsequent periodontal cleanings, called periodontal maintenance or supportive periodontal therapy. These cleanings usually are performed 3-4 times per year and are important to prevent reinfection and possible tooth loss.

For more information about the services we provide, please contact us at 410-243-3714.

We look forward to becoming your family dentist for years to come!

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