Your gum surgery is done, but the recovery has barely begun. That’s not what you’re warned about before sitting down in the chair, though. For many patients, managing life after periodontal treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when discomfort, sensitivity, or confusion about aftercare instructions kicks in.
But let’s clear that up now.
Periodontal therapy success is not solely a clinical occurrence. It also depends on the attention you provide to your gums in the days, weeks, and months following treatment. Whether you’ve undergone scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), a laser procedure, or surgery, knowledge of what to do and what not to do comes into play.
What Does Aftercare Include?
Healing from gum treatment is more than eliminating pain. It’s about letting your gums heal, soothe inflammation, and stay infection-free. Small daily habits now matter immensely.
This is what your gums need from you:
Gentle But Routine Oral Hygiene
During healing, your gums are sensitive but not weak. Brush softly with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day. Continue to floss, but those places that are very sore, leave them for a few days.
- Use antimicrobial mouthwash if prescribed. These types kill the bad bacteria without harming the healthy tissue.
- Do not use alcohol-based mouthwashes. These products dry up the mouth and prolong healing time.
What to Eat (and Avoid)
Avoid foods that are:
- Crunchy (nuts, chips)
- Spicy or acidic (hot sauces, citrus)
- Too hot or cold (nerves can be irritated with extreme temperatures)
- Follow a diet rich in soft, non-spicy foods like yogurt, eggs, mashed vegetables, and oatmeal for the first few days.
Reducing Swelling and Discomfort
Mild soreness or swelling is to be anticipated. Apply a cold compress to your cheek for 10 minutes at a time if needed. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen are effective, but only if your dentist recommends them.
If you still have pain longer than you anticipated or it becomes severe, call your Fort Worth dentist immediately. Gums should feel better within a few days, not worse.
Don’t Miss Your Follow-Up Visit
Your periodontal maintenance schedule is part of your treatment—not a suggestion. These appointments allow your dentist to monitor how good your gums are healing, eliminate any new plaque buildup, and make sure that everything is on track.
Missing appointments may jeopardize the progress that you’ve made.
And here’s a secret that few patients are aware of—research has shown that patients who visit their periodontist regularly for maintenance therapy every 3–4 months are less likely to experience recurrence of their gum disease.
Let Your Mouth Rest
No strenuous exercise for 24 hours after treatment. Increased circulation can disrupt clotting and healing. But don’t stay still. Short walks help healthy blood circulation, which speeds up healing.
Stay Ahead of Future Gum Issues
Once your gums heal, the goal is to keep them that way. That includes:
- Daily flossing
- Right brushing technique
- Regular cleanings every 3–4 months
- Keeping an eye on early signs like bleeding gums or bad breath
If you’re unsure whether your current routine supports gum health, ask your dentist. Many patients wait too long before seeking advice, and minor inflammation becomes a major disease.
Healing your gums after periodontal therapy takes more than time; it takes effort. With regular healthy oral care habits and advice from our dentist, you can stay ahead of gum disease and avoid future setbacks.
