Who needs a deep cleaning?
If a person develops pockets in the spaces between their teeth and gums, and these spaces measure greater than 4 millimeters, a deep cleaning becomes essential for developsThis treatment is essentially the first becomes necessary if pockets form in the spaces between the teeth and gums that measure greater than 4 millimeters.
Oral Care After a Deep Cleaning
Wait approximately 24 hours before flossing. There will be swelling which may reach its maximum at 48 or 72 hours after treatment.
How do I brush my teeth after a deep cleaning?
You can carefully brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush the same day as your treatment, even if your teeth and gums are feeling sore.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water 5 or 6 times a day (after meals and at bedtime) for the day following your deep cleaning.
Eating After a Deep Cleaning
After the deep cleaning procedure, when your mouth is still numb and the local anesthetic and (optional) laughing gas is wearing off, it’s important that you refrain from eating. Eating while numb can increase the chances of you biting your cheeks or tongue and disrupting the healing process.
Once the numbness wears off and you can feel your tongue and lips again, you can eat! This may take a few hours though.
It’s important to be cautious with what you eat during the healing process. The last thing we want is a piece of popcorn or other hard food getting lodged in your gums.
- Avoid sharp or crunch foods, like nuts and popcorn, for at least 24 hours post-treatment
- Avoid hot foods and beverages, like hot soup or hot coffee, for about 48 hours post-treatment
- Avoid highly acidic foods, like oranges and tomatoes, for at least 48 hours post-treatment
- Avoid spicy foods and alcoholic beverages for at least 48 hours to promote healing
The Bottom Line
