Periodontal health is essential to enjoying a beautiful, functional smile. When you are facing problems with your gums and supporting tooth tissue, undergoing periodontal treatment can be an effective solution to restore the health of your mouth. Whether you have undergone gum surgery, scaling and root planing, or dental implant treatment, it is critical that you take extra steps to care for your smile and maintain long-term results.
In this blog, we will share with you practical and effective tips to help you better understand how to keep your smile healthy and protect your investment in periodontal treatment. We know that taking care of your mouth can be a challenge, but with the right knowledge and tips, you can achieve a dazzling, long-lasting smile.
If you’re interested, read on!
How can I keep my smile healthy?
To maintain our oral health, it is important to keep in mind some basic instructions that will make it much easier.
Proper oral hygiene
The first step in taking care of your gums is to maintain proper oral hygiene. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the gum line and use gentle, circular movements to remove plaque. Don’t forget to also clean the tongue and floss daily to remove food debris and plaque between the teeth.
Mouthwash
Use a mouthwash recommended by your periodontist to help fight bacteria and reduce gum inflammation. Mouthwash can be an effective addition to your oral hygiene routine, but remember that it should not replace brushing and flossing.
Regular visits to the periodontist
Schedule regular appointments with your periodontist for checkups and professional cleanings. These visits are essential to monitor the health of your gums, detect any problems early and receive additional preventive treatments if necessary.
Stop smoking!
Smoking can interfere with healing after periodontal treatment. Avoid this habit as long as possible after your periodontal intervention.
Take care of your diet
We recommend that you eat soft foods for a week or, ideally, two weeks after surgery. A liquid diet would be ideal to irritate the gum area as little as possible, making sure that foods and liquids are at room temperature or lukewarm.
Some examples of suitable foods are:
- Jello
- Flan
- Ice cream
- Yogurt
- Soft cheeses, such as cottage cheese
- Well cooked pasta (no AL DENTE)
- Mashed potatoes
- Vegetable creams
Normally, the gum should heal in 14 days. After your consultation with the specialist, we will follow up with you to check the condition of your gums and to make sure that your oral health is in perfect condition.
It is best not to exert yourself too much during the first few days, however, if infection or inflammation occurs, the doctor will advise you to stay home for a few days to recover. To relieve pain, it is recommended to take ibuprofen and paracetamol to reduce swelling or inflammation. When taking any type of medication, it is essential to control the dosage. Always ask your doctor for advice so that the procedure is safe.