Recovery After Root Planing: Tips for Healing Faster

Root planing is a type of deep cleaning that smooths the roots of teeth and removes harmful bacteria under the gum line. It is one of the most effective treatments for gum disease, but the healing process matters just as much as the treatment itself. With the right care, recovery is quick and your gums can heal stronger.

At EZ Dental Care, we often guide patients in Bedok North and Geylang Bahru through root planing treatment. Many of their questions are not just about the procedure itself, but how to heal faster afterwards. This guide shares practical tips for recovery.

Key Takeaways

• Root planing cleans below the gum line, helping gums reattach to teeth.

• Recovery takes a few days, with most patients back to normal within a week.

• Simple aftercare steps, like soft foods and saltwater rinses, help healing.

• Avoid smoking, hard foods, and poor hygiene, which can slow recovery.

• EZ Dental Care provides root planing at Bedok North and Geylang Bahru clinics with clear aftercare advice.

  
  

Recovery after root planing usually takes a few days. Patients can manage discomfort with mild pain relief, eat soft foods, brush gently, and rinse with salt water. Avoid smoking, hard foods, and eating before anaesthetic wears off. Proper care helps gums heal faster and reduces infection risk. Clinics like EZ Dental Care in Bedok North and Geylang Bahru provide root planing and recovery support for gum disease patients.

What Is Root Planing and Why Does Recovery Matter?

Root planing is part of a dental deep cleaning, often paired with dental scaling. It removes plaque and tartar under the gums and smooths the roots of teeth. This gives gums a chance to reattach, reducing pockets where bacteria thrive.

The procedure itself is straightforward. The key to success, however, is how well you care for your gums afterwards. Recovery choices directly affect how fast healing happens and how effective treatment is.

Common Side Effects After Root Planing

It is normal to have:

• Mild gum tenderness

• Slight bleeding when brushing

• Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold

• Temporary swelling

  
  

These usually fade in a few days. If symptoms worsen or last longer than a week, it is important to contact a dentist near you.

Practical Tips for Healing Faster

Here are the do’s and don’ts after root planing:

1. Do take over-the-counter medication

Mild discomfort can be managed with acetaminophen or similar medicine. Sensitive-tooth toothpaste may also help ease sensitivity.

2. Don’t eat while numb

Anaesthetic takes time to wear off. Eating too soon can cause accidental bites to your tongue or cheeks. Wait until you regain normal sensation.

3. Do practise gentle oral hygiene

Brushing is safe, but use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be gentle around treated gums. Flossing can usually resume a day later.

4. Don’t eat certain foods

Avoid sticky, hard, crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods until gums heal. Instead, choose soft foods such as:

• Mashed potatoes

• Rice porridge

• Scrambled eggs

• Yogurt or soft fruits
  

5. Do rinse with salt water

Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and swish for 30 seconds. Repeat three times a day to ease tenderness and lower infection risk.

6. Don’t smoke

Tobacco slows healing and increases the chance of infection. Avoid smoking or vaping for at least three days, longer if possible.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Most patients recover within 3–7 days. Gums start to feel healthier, and bleeding reduces. In more advanced gum disease cases, healing may take longer. Regular follow-ups with a dentist near you help ensure the gums are healing well.

How to Protect Root Planing Results After Recovery

• Keep regular dental cleanings every six months.

• Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup.

• Use antibacterial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.

• Schedule follow-ups at your dental clinic for monitoring.
  

These steps not only speed recovery but also prevent gum disease from returning.

Where Can You Compare Recovery Guidance?

Many dental clinics in Singapore provide root planing and recovery instructions. EZ Dental Care, with clinics in Bedok North and Geylang Bahru, offers treatment and follow-up care for patients managing gum disease. Patients should compare clinics by looking at:

• Clarity of aftercare instructions

• Comfort-focused treatment approach

• Accessibility and location

• Dentist experience in periodontal care

FAQs

How painful is recovery after root planing?

Discomfort is mild and can be managed with pain relief. Sensitivity usually fades within a few days.

Can I eat normally after root planing?

Yes, once your gums heal. In the first few days, stick to soft foods.

Is bleeding normal after root planing?

 Yes, minor bleeding when brushing is normal, but it should lessen quickly.

Can I go back to work the same day?

 Yes, most patients resume daily activities right away.

How do I know if my gums are not healing?

If swelling, pain, or bleeding worsens after a week, see your dentist.

Is root planing a one-time treatment?

It depends. Some patients need only one session, while others may need ongoing maintenance.

Does root planing stop gum disease completely?

 It controls gum disease but ongoing oral hygiene and check-ups are necessary.

Root Planing Recovery and Aftercare with EZ Dental Care

Recovery after root planing does not need to be difficult. With soft foods, saltwater rinses, gentle brushing, and avoiding smoking, most patients heal within days. The key is consistency and care.

For those in Singapore, especially around Bedok North and Geylang Bahru, EZ Dental Care provides not only root planing but also clear aftercare guidance to make healing as easy as possible. Taking these steps ensures your gums heal faster and your smile stays protected.

Schedule a consultation now at EZ Dental Care.

Contact Us:

📍 Bedok North Dental Clinic / 📞 +65 9122 8283

📍 Geylang Bahru Dental Clinic / 📞 +65 8288 7312