Joel R. Koch, DDS
Your Family Dentist

What to Expect During and After Periodontal Treatment

June 18, 2025
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Posted By: Joel R. Koch, DDS

When you have gum disease, it can affect more than your oral health; it can impact your confidence and overall well-being. Fortunately, periodontal disease is treatable, and we provide compassionate care options for our patients in West Chester and the surrounding communities.

Whether you need a routine dental cleaning, a deep cleaning, or periodontal maintenance, we can customize a treatment plan to get your oral health back on track.

Keep reading to learn what to expect during and after periodontal treatment.

What to Expect During Treatment

Periodontal treatment is designed to address gum disease that occurs below the gumline, where bacteria and plaque are most prevalent.

When you visit us for treatment, we will:

  • Assess your gum health — First, we’ll perform a thorough examination to evaluate your gum health. If you have gum disease, we’ll create a treatment plan to restore your oral health.
  • Scaling and root planing — Next, we’ll numb your mouth with a local anesthetic and then remove the plaque and tartar from below the gumline. Then, we’ll smooth your tooth’s roots, making it easier for your gums to reattach. We may perform this procedure during two separate visits.

What to Expect After Treatment

After your periodontal treatment, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Gum tenderness or sensitivity
  • Slight bleeding when brushing or flossing
  • Tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking something hot or cold

To avoid these concerns, here’s what you can do:

  • Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and desensitizing toothpaste.
  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers to help with discomfort.

Achieving Long-Term Gum Health

Once your treatment is complete, you’ll still need to manage your gum health. We offer periodontal maintenance cleanings to prevent recurring issues. For some patients, we may recommend maintenance cleanings up to four times each year.

Ready to Learn More About Periodontal Treatment in West Chester?

If you’d like to speak with our experienced dental team about periodontal treatment, we'll be happy to assist you. At Joel R. Koch, D.D.S., our goal is a healthy mouth for every patient.

To contact our dental office, please call us at (513) 779-2200.

We look forward to hearing from you.

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