Gum disease is a serious health condition. If you receive a periodontal treatment, Dr. Annissa Michael will provide you with post-op instructions to help you recover. These post-op instructions may include the following:

Laser Bacterial Reduction Post-Op Instructions

Following laser bacterial reduction, we recommend that you:

  •  Avoid Eating or Drinking Immediately: After the laser bacterial reduction procedure, refrain from eating or drinking for at least one hour to allow the treated areas to heal properly.
  • Be Cautious with Hot and Cold Foods: Sensitivity to hot and cold foods may occur after the procedure. Try to avoid extreme temperatures for the first few days.
  • Continue Regular Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing, but be gentle around the treated areas to avoid irritation.
  • Use Mouthwash as Directed: Our [ dr_type] may recommend a special mouthwash to help reduce bacteria and promote healing. Use it as instructed, typically for the first few days following the procedure.
  • Take Pain Medication as Needed: Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate any discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions on the medication packaging or our dentist’s recommendations.
  • Attend Follow-Up Appointments: If our dentist scheduled a follow-up appointment, make sure to attend it. During this visit, she will evaluate the effectiveness of the laser bacterial reduction and address any concerns you may have.

Scaling & Root Planing Post-Op Instructions 

  1. Avoid Eating or Drinking Immediately: After scaling and root planing, avoid eating or drinking for at least one to two hours to allow the treated areas to heal properly.
  2. Be Cautious with Hot and Cold Foods: Sensitivity to hot and cold foods is common after scaling and root planing. Try to avoid extreme temperatures for the first few days.
  3. Continue Regular Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly, but be gentle around the treated areas to avoid irritation.
  4. Use Mouthwash as Directed: Our dentist may prescribe a special antimicrobial mouthwash to help prevent infection and promote healing. Use it as instructed, typically for the first few days following the procedure.
  5. Take Pain Medication as Needed: If you experience any discomfort after scaling and root planing, you can take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Follow the dosage instructions on the medication packaging or your dentist’s recommendations.
  6. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Follow any instructions provided by our dentist regarding follow-up appointments. These visits are important for monitoring your healing progress and ensuring the success of the treatment.

Make An Appointment

By following these post-op instructions you can help promote healing and maintain optimal oral health. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Boulder Valley Dental Center at 303-666-8820 and speak with a member of our team. We will be happy to provide you with more information and help you make an appointment with our dentist in Louisville, Colorado.