Post-Treatment Instructions for SRP (Deep Cleaning)

Please read and follow these instructions below to ensure a healthy recovery after your procedure. 

The following guidelines have been prepared for you in order to maximize healing and minimize any discomfort you might experience. It’s important to remember that the success of your treatment is highly dependent on maintaining a high standard of at-home care, as well as keeping up with your dental cleaning appointments.

Immediately After Your Procedure

  1. After your SRP procedure, you should expect your gums to be sore for the next few days.

  2. Avoid eating or drinking anything until the anesthesia wears off (usually within 2-3 hours) to avoid accidentally biting your lip, tongue, or cheeks.

  3. Do not smoke for at least 48 hours (the longer you wait, the better).  

  4. Avoid vigorous physical exercise, but you may return to work.

  5. Teeth may be sensitive to temperature changes and/or sweets. 

  6. Several days after treatment your gums should begin to appear pinker, less swollen, and will bleed less when you floss. These are signs of healing and improving periodontal health.

Medications:

  • For any discomfort or tenderness, you can take Advil (ibuprofen) or Tylenol (acetaminophen). Avoid taking aspirin unless otherwise instructed by your primary care physician.

  • We may prescribe chlorohexidine mouthwash (Peridex), which is a germicidal mouthwash that reduces bacteria in the mouth.

    • If you're allergic to sulfa or have any known reaction to chlorhexidine, we will not prescribe Peridex. Instead, you can use an over-the-counter mouth wash or rinse with warm salt water rinses twice a day. 

At Home Care:

  1. You should immediately resume your normal home care routine including brushing and flossing. Some slight bleeding may occur during the next several brushings, but the bleeding should steadily decrease after two or three days.

  2. After the first day, and after flossing and brushing, rinse with Peridex (if prescribed), for at least 30 seconds. Do not rinse, drink or eat for 30 minutes after using Peridex.  Do not continue to use Peridex after 2 weeks, as it will stain your teeth!


Please contact our office if you have any questions or concerns!