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Maintaining good oral health after gum treatment

gum treatment SavannahIf you’ve had gum treatment for periodontal disease, such as root planing or gum surgery, you’ll need to maintain excellent oral health to prevent the gum disease from returning. It’s very important to brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly to ensure no additional deep cleaning or surgery is required.

Gum Treatment After Care

Immediately after your gum treatment, you’ll have to take special care of your gums to ensure successful healing. With root planing, your mouth will probably be tender for several days. Your periodontist will provide prescription pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection and to ensure your comfort while you heal. You’ll need to avoid brushing and flossing for a day or so, per your dentist’s instructions. You might also use a special mouthwash to prevent plaque buildup during the time when you can’t brush your teeth.

If you’ve had gum surgery, most of the same instructions apply, but it will take a little longer for you to heal completely. Eat soft foods to avoid disturbing your incisions, and avoid anything overly warm, like hot coffee, or overly spicy. If you’ve had gum grafts and tissue was removed from your palate (the roof of your mouth), you might have additional care instructions for your healing period to prevent further damage to these tissues.

Long-Term Care for Your Gums

In the long term, it’s important to follow diligent regular oral hygiene so you won’t have to have gum surgery again in the future. Basic brushing and flossing is the best way to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. This everyday activity helps remove food particles, bacteria, and plaque from your tooth surfaces and from just under the gum line. It also helps encourage healthy blood flow to your periodontal tissues.

If you have a tendency to develop inflammation, you might need to see your dentist more often. After your gum surgery, talk to Dr. Duval about any future changes he might want to make to your regular check-up schedule. Call our office to make an appointment!