NON-SURGICAL PERIODONTAL THERAPY

Congratulations on taking the first step in achieving optimal oral and systemic health! Below are some helpful suggestions that will increase your comfort and help you to receive the maximum benefit from periodontal treatment. The success of your treatment is now dependent on YOU!


For the next 6-9 weeks (until you return for your re-evaluation appointment) we need you to strictly adhere to the following regimen both in the morning and at night before bedtime:

  • Use Waterpik as instructed by your hygienist.
  • Brush all your teeth (front, back, and sides- focusing along the gums) for at least 2 minutes with an ultrasonic toothbrush (Sonicare/Oral B) and any recommended mouth rinses.
  • Consistent and thorough daily oral hygiene is essential to the proper healing of your gum tissues.
  • Return for your re-evaluation appointment. It is part of your treatment. We will check your healing, the condition of your gum tissue, and periodontal measurements, provide further education, and will complete another full mouth cleaning. This appointment is part of your treatment and at no charge to you.

WHAT TO EXPECT AND RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • You can expect to notice less redness, less bleeding, and less swelling of your gum tissues. Your teeth may feel smoother, and you will feel better. Your gum health must be maintained with proper home care, as
    instructed, and regular professional care.
  • When anesthesia has been used, your lips, teeth, and tongue may be numb for several hours after the appointment. Avoid chewing until the numbness has completely worn off. It is easy to bite or burn your tongue,
    cheek, or lip while numb.
  • To reduce tenderness and promote healing, for the next two weeks, rinse with warm salt water 2-3 times a day: 1⁄2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water. Rinsing with salt water will help promote the healing of the gums and keep the mouth clean in order to prevent any infection from bacteria. Patients often find the warm saltwater soothing to slightly inflamed gums.
  • It is common to experience slight discomfort after treatment, but this can usually be controlled with over-the-counter analgesics, such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol. You may want to take one of these immediately after the appointment and for the next 24 hours as directed unless. Do not take analgesics if you have a known allergy or a medical condition that prevents you from taking these medications.
  • It is not unusual for teeth to be more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures and sweets. This occurs as the gum tissue heals and shrinks in size. Brushing 2-3 times daily with Sensodyne toothpaste can help alleviate this over time.
  • For the next week, avoid hard or crunchy foods such as tortilla chips, popcorn, or seeds.

FUTURE APPOINTMENTS:

Patients who return regularly for periodontal maintenance visits with the hygienist at the recommended interval are less likely to have to have non-surgical periodontal therapy procedures repeated. However, failure to maintain recommended oral care at home as well as not staying up to date on regular cleanings with your dental professional may result in relapse of health and require additional treatment. We are committed to providing excellent care to maintain your oral health, but ultimately it is your responsibility to keep your appointments and do your part at home. Depending on your home care and your periodontal health, you may require more frequent visits for periodontal maintenance such as every 3-4 months rather than every 6 months.


If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office at the number below:

EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS

  • For general questions and concerns, please call the office or text URGENT to 903-872-8422 and someone will get back with you as soon as possible.
  • If an emergency arises, please call 911.