Dental cleaning after surgery

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#1 Post by **BracketRacket** » Mon Sep 06, 2010 7:38 am

I'm a little more than 3 months post-op and I have an appointment with my regular dentist tomorrow for a cleaning and I'm pretty (probably for no reason) worried.

First off, with the lack of cleaning/the appliance in place/numb gums, I'm sure my teeth are in rough shape...eek! Hopefully no cavities but I'm none too confident!

Also, the hygenist is the same, but I'm seeing a new person in the practice.

But I'm mostly concerned with the cleaning itself. My upper gums are still very numb around the outsides where the incisions were, and other spots that aren't numb feel "bad," for lack of a better word, while brushing. I'm concerned with not being able to feel while they are working (which can be a little rough while trying to scale, floss, etc.) I know they are trained, but I'm so protective after the surgery, and it's especially hard not knowing anything about the new dentist and particularly them not knowing anything about me. Do you think most dentists are used to dealing with some surgical cases?

Anyway, any words of wisdom/tips for talking to the team/making this go smoothly? Did anyone have any issues with their first cleaning post-op?

Thanks!

#2 Post by **BracketRacket** » Mon Sep 06, 2010 7:47 pm

Y'all are walking around with dirty teeths?

#3 Post by **mountaingirl** » Mon Sep 06, 2010 9:16 pm

Pretty much walking around with dirty teeth..yup.

How did your cleaning go? I have my first post op cleaning at the end of the month and will be 3 months post op as well. I don't know how it will feel, but I am not too worried about it. After being wired shut, there is some catch up to do.

#4 Post by **ColoradoGirl** » Mon Sep 06, 2010 11:18 pm

Maybe you can ask your surgeon (or your surgeon's assistants?) for tips on talking to the new dentist. In my experience, dentists are usually pretty nice about problems, but hygenists can be a little bit...well, naggy.

But given the fact that you've just had surgery--which they'll most likely be able to see, even if you don't mention it--you should be fine. And, they're totally trained, and they'll know what will help your gum tissues and stay away from damaging them. With the numbness, it might even be a more pleasant experience than usual!

#5 Post by **ceanna** » Tue Sep 07, 2010 4:40 pm

My dental hygienist was very understanding. I told her ahead of time that I still had some areas that were sensitive and/or numb, and indicated where she should take extra care. She was very careful and gentle and I appreciated it.