What to Do If Your Gums Are Still Sensitive After Scaling & Root Planing
If you’ve just had scaling and root planing, you’re likely hoping for healthier gums and less inflammation. It’s common to feel a bit sore after the procedure, but if your gums are still sensitive days later, you might start wondering if something’s wrong. This blog covers what’s normal, what’s not, and how to feel better fast.
1. Understand What’s Normal and What’s Not After the Procedure
In the first 24–72 hours after scaling and root planing, some soreness and gum sensitivity are completely expected. Your gums have just gone through deep cleaning—this can irritate the soft tissue a bit. You may also notice:
- Slight bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Mild swelling or tenderness
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
These symptoms should gradually improve within a week.
But watch out for signs that aren’t part of the usual healing process. These might mean you need a check-up:
- Pain that gets worse after a few days
- Gums that look very red or feel hot to the touch
- Pus or unusual discharge between teeth
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes
If any of these occur, it’s time to speak up and see a family dentist for a closer look.
2. Common Reasons for Prolonged Gum Sensitivity
Still feeling sore after more than a week?
A few possible culprits might be to blame. One common issue is exposed root surfaces. When plaque is cleaned out from deep below the gumline, the roots may become visible, making your teeth feel especially sensitive to cold air or even brushing. Another reason could be aggressive brushing. Using a lot of force while brushing can damage healing tissue and extend the discomfort, so gentle strokes with a soft-bristled brush are important.
Ongoing inflammation is also a factor—if all the plaque wasn’t removed or returns quickly, the gums can remain irritated and tender. Gum recession may also be the root of the problem, as thinner gum tissue offers less protection, leading to prolonged sensitivity. Poor oral hygiene or smoking can slow healing significantly. Your gums need a clean, healthy environment to bounce back. Even habits like chewing only on one side of your mouth can create pressure imbalances that stall recovery.
If you’re not sure what’s behind the discomfort, consider visiting a dentist near you for a closer look.
3. At-Home Remedies to Soothe Gum Sensitivity
You don’t have to suffer in silence. There are things you can do at home that really help.
Try these tips:
- Saltwater Rinse
Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass having lukewarm water. Swish gently for 30 seconds. It reduces bacteria and soothes swollen tissue.
- Desensitizing Toothpaste
Look for options with potassium nitrate. Use it twice daily and avoid rinsing immediately afterward for better results.
- Cold Compress
Cover up an ice pack in a towel and apply to your cheek for 10 minutes at a time. This reduces swelling and numbs discomfort.
- Anti-inflammatory Mouthwash
Choose alcohol-free rinses with aloe or chamomile to keep things calm.
- Gentle Brushing
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and go slowly. Circular motions are less likely to hurt than vigorous back-and-forth scrubbing.
Consistency matters. Stick with your routine and give your gums the care they need.
4. Dietary Adjustments to Minimize Irritation
What you eat matters, especially in the days following scaling and root planing. To avoid triggering discomfort, steer clear of hot beverages like coffee or tea, acidic foods such as citrus fruits and vinegar, crunchy snacks like chips and hard bread, and spicy or overly salty items that might sting your gums. Instead, opt for softer, healing-friendly choices.
Cooked vegetables including carrots or squash are gentle on the gums, while soft proteins like eggs or fish provide much-needed nutrients without causing pain. Smoothies—if not too cold—are refreshing and easy to consume, and comforting foods like yogurt, oatmeal, and mashed potatoes can help you stay nourished.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush out bacteria and support healing. Adding anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens or turmeric tea can also offer relief. This period of healing is a smart time to schedule a checkup for dental care in Pleasant Hill and monitor your progress.
5. When to Follow Up With Your Dentist
Sensitivity that sticks around longer than 10 days deserves a second look. Don’t tough it out thinking it’s just part of the healing.
Call your dentist if you experience:
- Throbbing pain that doesn’t fade
- Gums that stay puffy or bleed often
- New bad breath that won’t go away
- Teeth feeling loose
- Swollen cheeks or jawline
Follow-up care matters. Your dentist might recommend another cleaning, apply a medicated rinse, or check for infection. In some cases, they’ll assess whether deeper periodontal treatment is needed.
And don’t feel bad about going back. Most patients require at least two visits after scaling & root planing in Pleasant Hill, CA, especially if gum disease was advanced.
Final Thoughts
Sensitive gums after a deep cleaning are normal, but not forever. Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, talk to your provider. Healing should improve, not drag on.
At Grafton Dental, we care about how you feel after your procedure, not just during it. Still struggling with gum sensitivity after treatment? Don’t wait it out—schedule a follow-up with your dental provider.