My Teeth Hurt After Cleaning

If you have not had a professional dental cleaning in a few years, you may experience some discomfort at your next visit. Mild discomfort or pain after a dental cleaning is common and usually temporary. Some patients also report experiencing tooth sensitivity after a cleaning. Below is more information about why some patients experience pain or sensitivity after a routine dental cleaning and tips that may help relieve the discomfort.

Steps of a Regular Dental Cleaning

During a dental cleaning, the hygienist applies pressure to the teeth to remove plaque and tartar by scraping with special instruments. A standard dental cleaning typically involves the following steps:

  1. Scaling: The first step of a cleaning is scaling, when debris and built-up plaque are removed from along the gumline and between the teeth. For some patients, the scaling process can be slightly uncomfortable.
  2. Polishing: After the teeth are cleaned, they are polished using a paste applied with an automatic rotating device. This step smooths the tooth surface, making it harder for plaque and tartar to build up again.
  3. Flossing: The final step of the cleaning is flossing between the teeth. After a quick floss and rinse, the cleaning is complete.

This pressure applied to the teeth during these steps is often greater than what patients are used to, and it may also temporarily irritate the gums. For this reason, a dental cleaning can feel more invasive than your regular at-home oral hygiene routine.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

One of the main causes of discomfort after a dental cleaning is existing tooth sensitivity. Heat, cold, and additional pressure, like that experienced during a cleaning, can trigger sensitivity in patients with sensitive teeth. Common causes of tooth sensitivity include:

  1. Brushing too aggressively: Brushing too hard can cause the gums to recede and expose the tooth root, which may lead to sensitivity.
  2. Skipping daily oral hygiene: Missing daily brushing and flossing allows plaque and bacteria to build up, which can eventually irritate the gums.
  3. Dental procedures: Dental cleanings, teeth scaling, fillings, and other dental procedures that involve pressure may temporarily increase tooth sensitivity.
  4. A high-acid diet: Frequent consumption of acidic foods can erode the tooth enamel, leading to increased tooth sensitivity over time.

Tips for Treating Tooth Sensitivity

There are several simple ways to reduce tooth sensitivity. The best place to start is by maintaining good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing. In addition, the following tips may help reduce sensitivity:

  1. Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth: Many toothpastes are specifically made for sensitive teeth. These products can help reduce sensitivity over time.
  2. Brush gently: Brushing with gentle strokes and using a soft-bristled toothbrush helps keep the teeth clean while minimizing irritation to the gums.
  3. Fluoride mouth rinse: An over-the-counter fluoride rinse can help strengthen enamel and remineralize the surface of the teeth.

If you experience tooth sensitivity, consider speaking with your dentist before your next dental cleaning. They may be able to adjust their approach or recommend treatments to make your next cleaning more comfortable.

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