Abstain from drinking hot liquids and chewing on the side where treatment was completed during the first 2 to 3 hours after treatment, as you will be numb. This will avoid damaging soft tissue such as lips, inside of cheeks, the roof of your mouth and your tongue. Also, for the next 24 to 48 hours abstain from eating spicy foods or foods with sharp edges as the gums are healing and will be sensitive. Some symptoms you may experience could include: a tingling sensation of the mouth as the anesthesia begins to wear off; your gums may ache or throb after the procedure; and, you may have sensitivity to temperature or sweets for a short period of time. This will subside within the next couple of days. To alleviate any discomfort, you may take "ibuprofen" such as Motrin or Advil (if you are not allergic) as soon as 1 hour following your appointment and as needed for the next few days. Follow the directions on the bottle for dosage. If extreme sensitivity persists longer than 2 days, please advise our office and the doctor may recommend a desensitizing/fluoride toothpaste which will help reduce sensitivity. It is imperative that you follow all oral hygiene instructions given to you by the hygienist at the time of your appointment to insure proper healing of the gums. You should notice a reduction in the amount your gums bleed within the next two weeks. It is very important to return to the office in 3 months for the follow up evaluation and to establish your periodontal maintenance recall visits.