What to Expect Following Active Periodontal Therapy

The goal of APT, or a deep cleaning, is to encourage the reattachment of healthy gum tissue to the healthy root surface by removing all bacterial biofilm, including tartar, on the teeth and in the gum tissue below the gumline. The “pockets” should become smaller, making your home care of brushing, flossing, and rinsing more effective. You should notice less bleeding over time, as well as a reduction in inflammation and redness of the gum tissue.

When anesthetic is used, your lips, teeth and tongue may be numb for several hours following your appointment. Be careful when eating until the numbness has worn off. As the numbness does wear off, we have found some patients experience discomfort of the gums, teeth and/or jaw joint after. As the inflammation of the gums goes down, this can leave the root surface of the teeth more exposed and potentially more sensitive to cold. This should fade with time, but sensitivity toothpaste or fluoride can help with restoring comfort. Rinsing with warm salt water can also be helpful, as can taking a pain reliever to assist with any residual soreness.

Your first visit after the gum APT is a 6 week check to evaluate the healing process, record pocket depths and discuss homecare.

After your 6 week check, you will be seen every 3 months for Supportive Periodontal Therapy for the first year following APT. These supportive cleanings allow your hygienist to reach to the base of the pockets to continue to remove any bacteria and build up and promote healing. Our goal for you is that your homecare will eventually warrant a 6 month periodontal cleaning, however, we will not compromise your health by recommending less frequent cleanings until we feel your periodontal health is stable.

Post Active Periodontal Therapy Instructions

• Good daily oral hygiene is crucial to the success of APT. Follow the hygiene instructions given to you at the time of your procedure.
• Try to avoid smoking to allow optimal blood flow to the tissues and allow for proper healing.
• If Chlorhexidine or antibiotics were prescribed, please use as directed.
• If you experience any mild discomfort of the area treated, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever of choice (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc.) can be helpful.
• If you experience any sensitivity, use the sensitivity toothpaste provided until gone.

Please contact us at 605.332.4751 if you have any questions or concerns.