Microbiologically effective silver hydrosol is used to reduce the local level of microorganisms at the site of a dental procedure and to prevent or inhibit their growth during the healing that follows the procedure. Any gingival lesions created by a dental procedure are treated with silver hydrosol in an aqueous gel. Following the procedure the patient's mouth is periodically rinsed several times a day with a solution of silver hydrosol or, more preferably, with a combination of silver hydrosol and hydrogen peroxide. These steps result in a significant reduction in post operative pain and swelling. Overall healing is accelerated by this treatment.