Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. When gum disease develops, one of the most effective treatments your dentist may recommend is scaling and root planning (SRP).

This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. While the procedure itself is an essential step toward restoring gum health, what happens after treatment is equally crucial. Proper care ensures healing, prevents reinfection, and helps you maintain long-term oral health.

What Is Scaling and Root Planning?

Before diving into aftercare, let’s review what the procedure involves:

• Scaling: Removes hardened plaque (tartar) and bacteria from above and below the gumline using specialized dental tools.
• Root Planing: Smooths the root surfaces of the teeth to prevent bacteria from reattaching and to encourage the gums to reattach more firmly to the teeth.

Scaling and root planing is often the first line of defense against periodontal (gum) disease. It not only treats infection but also helps stop the progression of gum disease that could otherwise lead to tooth loss.

What to Expect After Scaling and Root Planing

It is normal to experience some temporary side effects after the procedure, such as:

• Mild soreness or sensitivity in your gums and teeth.
• Slight swelling or tenderness in the treated areas.
• Minor bleeding during brushing or flossing.
• Increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.

These symptoms usually improve within a few days to a week as your gums begin to heal.

Immediate Aftercare Tips

The first 24–48 hours are the most important for healing. Follow these steps:

1. Take Medications as Directed
   Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen) or prescribe antibiotics if needed. Always follow the instructions carefully.

2. Stick to a Soft Diet
   Choose foods that are gentle on your gums, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, scrambled eggs, and smoothies. Avoid crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods that can irritate healing tissue.

3. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
   Both slow down healing and increase the risk of infection. Ideally, avoid them completely during recovery — and consider quitting smoking altogether for long-term gum health.

4. Use a Salt Water Rinse
   Rinsing gently with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 1 cup of water) 2–3 times a day can soothe your gums, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene After the Procedure

Good oral hygiene is key to recovery and preventing gum disease from returning. Here’s how to care for your teeth and gums after scaling and root planning:

• Brushing: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush gently twice daily. Avoid aggressive brushing that may irritate healing gums.
• Flossing: Continue flossing once daily, but be extra gentle around tender areas. If flossing is too uncomfortable, ask your dentist about alternatives such as interdental brushes or water flossers.
• Mouthwash: Your dentist may recommend an antimicrobial mouthwash (such as chlorhexidine) to reduce bacteria and promote healing.

Lifestyle Habits That Support Healing

Your gums heal faster when supported by healthy lifestyle choices:

1. Stay Hydrated – Drinking water helps wash away bacteria and keeps your mouth moist.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet – include foods rich in vitamin C, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids to strengthen your gums and fight inflammation.
3. Manage Stress – High stress can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of gum disease.
4. Prioritize Sleep – Adequate rest supports your body’s healing process.

Follow-Up Appointments: Why They Matter

Scaling and root planing is often completed in two or more visits. After the procedure, your dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to:

• Check your healing progress.
• Measure pocket depths around your gums.
• Perform additional cleaning if necessary.
• Discuss long-term periodontal maintenance.

Square One Health Group, patients are often placed on a periodontal maintenance schedule with cleanings every 3–4 months to prevent recurrence.

Long-Term Care for Healthy Gums

After your gums heal, the goal is to maintain results and prevent gum disease from returning.

 Here is how:

• Regular Dental Visits: Continue with professional cleanings at the frequency recommended by your dentist.
• Consistent Home Care: Brush, floss, and rinse daily.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease and can undo the benefits of treatment.
• Monitor Your Gums: Watch for signs such as bleeding, swelling, or recession. Early detection prevents further damage.

Common Questions About Post-SRP Care

1. How long does it take for gums to heal after scaling and root planing?

Most healing occurs within 1–2 weeks, but complete gum reattachment and reduced pocket depths may take a few months.

2. Can gums grow back after scaling and root planing?

While gums don’t regenerate once lost, scaling and root planing can prevent further recession and allow the gums to reattach to the teeth.

3. What should I do if my gums bleed after the procedure?

Mild bleeding is normal for a few days. If heavy or persistent bleeding occurs, contact your dentist.

4. Do I need scaling and root planing more than once?

Some patients may need retreatment if gum disease progresses again. Regular maintenance cleanings help reduce the likelihood of repeat procedures.

The Role of Professional Care in Gum Health

Scaling and root planing are highly effective, but they are not a cure-all. Gum disease is a chronic condition, meaning ongoing care is essential. Professional support ensures:

• Thorough plaque and tartar removal.
• Monitoring of gum health and pocket depths.
• Early intervention if signs of gum disease return.

At Square One Health Group, our dental team takes a proactive approach to periodontal care, combining advanced techniques with personalized patient education to ensure lasting results.

Final Thoughts

Scaling and root planning is one of the most effective treatments for gum disease, but the real success comes from how you care for your gums afterward. With the proper aftercare, good oral hygiene, and regular dental checkups, you can restore gum health, prevent reinfection, and protect your smile for years to come.

If you have recently had scaling and root planning — or suspect you may need it — don’t wait. At Square One Health Group, our experienced dental professionals are here to guide you through treatment and provide long-term support for healthier gums.