Aftercare
Aftercare for a Deep Teeth Cleaning
After a deep cleaning, you may have soreness for a day or two and tooth sensitivity for up to a week, according to the American Dental Association. Your gums may also be swollen, tender, or bleed a little as they begin to heal. A follow-up visit lets Dr. Lee check how your gums have responded.
What is normal after a deep cleaning?
| Time | What to expect |
|---|---|
| First day or two | Soreness and tender gums as the numbness wears off |
| Up to a week | Sensitivity to cold, especially where roots were cleaned |
| Following weeks | Gums tighten and become less puffy as they heal |
How do you care for your gums?
- Take pain relief as Dr. Lee recommends, and use any prescribed rinse as directed.
- Eat soft foods while your gums are tender, and avoid very hot, spicy, or crunchy foods.
- Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush, gently along the gumline.
- Resume cleaning between your teeth as Dr. Lee instructs.
- Avoid tobacco, which slows healing.
Why is the follow-up visit important?
Dr. Lee schedules a follow-up visit to see how your gums have healed and measure the pockets between your gums and teeth. Shallower pockets show the gums are reattaching. She then sets a schedule of periodontal maintenance visits to keep the gums stable.
When should you call the office?
Call the office if pain or swelling increases after the first few days, if you develop a fever, or if sensitivity is severe or lasts beyond a week or two.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my teeth more sensitive after a deep cleaning?
Removing tartar from the roots can leave root surfaces exposed to cold for a short time. Sensitivity usually eases within a week, and a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help.
Is bleeding after a deep cleaning normal?
A little bleeding when brushing in the first days is common as the gums heal. It should lessen as the gums become healthier.
When is Smile Art open?
We are open Monday to Thursday, 8:00am to 4:00pm. If you are in pain or have swelling, call us right away.
Related pages
Sources
This guide follows the American Dental Association's patient guidance. It does not replace the instructions Dr. Lee gives you for your treatment, which come first.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.