Patient testimonials

I always have fun when I come visit Dr. Postols office. You make going to the dentist a not so terrible experience anymore.
Maria P. St. Louis, MO

Activity

The treatment performed for you today is called scaling and root planing with pocket debridement. It is done to remove the bacteria and tartar (calculus) that you have collected below the gum line. You may resume normal daily activities following a scaling and root planing appointment. If a local anesthetic was used, it will usually wear off in 2-3 hours following the debridement.

Diet

It is recommended that for a few days after the periodontal debridement, when the gum tissue is slightly loose around the neck of the teeth, that snacks such as peanuts, popcorn, or seeds be avoided as to not lodge and cause further problems. Drink at least 8 glasses of water today to help remove the bacteria that is present. You may continue your normal diet other than the above items.

Swelling

A slight amount of swelling and discomfort is not unusual following some procedures and usually will start to disappear in two or three days. If an area is swollen for more than a few days please call us or advise us at your next visit.

Sensitivity

The bacteria, which accumulate on the teeth, act like an insulating blanket over the root surface of the tooth. In removing this “diseased blanket”, there is a new exposure of a healthy root surface and possibly shrinkage of the gum. This is necessary for the elimination of the infection. As a result of this shrinkage, it is normal to expect some additional tooth sensitivity to cold. If necessary, we will recommend different products to decrease cold sensitivity. Keeping the area free of plaque is the best way to promote healing and reduce sensitivity. Plaque produces acid, which destroys the healing tissues and makes the tooth sensitive.

Discomfort

Your gum tissue may be tender for a couple of days following the scaling and root planing. This can be relieved with Tylenol or Advil taken as directed on the label. We suggest avoiding aspirin as it is occasionally associated with post treatment bleeding. Also, you may use some salt-water rinses (1/4 tsp. salt in a glass of warm water) to help soothe the area.

Bleeding

Expect some slight oozing around the necks of the teeth for a few hours after the root planing. This is normal and should not prevent you from your normal daily activities. If the bleeding persists, some light pressure with a cool damp cloth may help stop localized bleeding.

Oral Hygiene

Keeping the treated areas clean is very important. The cleaner you keep the area the sooner the healing will occur. The more you avoid the areas the slower the healing. Plaque must be removed from all tooth surfaces and along the gum line every day to eliminate the infection. Please follow your oral hygiene instructions and ask for help with your hygiene habits if you have questions.

Please Call Us

If you have any questions and/or if you experience excessive bleeding, severe discomfort despite taking the medication you can reach me at:

OFFICE: (636-394-6044) HOME: (636-230-0029) CELL: (314-249-0123)