Dental Cleaning
Good oral hygiene is important in order to maintain healthy teeth and gums. One important element of good oral hygiene is a professional teeth cleaning. Patients may not like going to the dentist or simply fail to make routine appointments a priority.
Patients who have not received a professional cleaning in a while may experience some discomfort during their cleaning. It is normal to experience some minor discomfort or even pain following a professional dental cleaning, especially if there is significant buildup. Patients often report increased sensitivity or discomfort after the cleaning.
The dentist or hygienist will use special handheld tools and apply pressure to the teeth during a cleaning. This can cause sensitivity and irritation. Because a professional cleaning goes beyond routine brushing and flossing, some discomfort is to be expected.
Sensitivity Causes
General tooth sensitivity is one of the biggest reasons why individuals have discomfort following a professional cleaning. Tooth sensitivity is often caused by the gums pulling back or receding from the teeth. This exposes the tooth’s root, which is extremely sensitive. The teeth are covered by a hard enamel, which helps protect them from damage. Because the tooth’s roots are not covered by enamel, they are very sensitive. Things such as pressure, heat, and cold often trigger sensitivity. Common things that cause tooth sensitivity are outlined below:
- Oral Hygiene: Patients who fail to practice good oral hygiene with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing allow for plaque and bacteria to accumulate on the teeth. Over time, this causes gum recession and even gum disease.
- Aggressive Brushing: Using too much force when brushing can damage the gums.
- Dental procedures: Various dental procedures can also cause sensitivity. This may include teeth whitening, a professional cleaning, fillings, and other procedures.
- Diet: Patients who eat large amounts of highly acidic foods can experience erosion of the tooth’s enamel, which exposes the sensitive root.
Treatment
Tooth sensitivity can be extremely uncomfortable and frustrating. Fortunately, sensitivity is quite common, and there are methods to treat this issue and offer patients relief. Perhaps the best way to prevent sensitivity is by taking care of the teeth and gums with daily brushing and flossing. Patients should use a soft-bristle toothbrush and avoid using too much pressure. Tips to follow for patients with sensitive teeth are summarized below:
- Sensitivity toothpaste – Many manufacturers have toothpaste that is specially designed for sensitive teeth. These sensitive toothpastes can help provide relief and manage discomfort.
- Gentle Brushing Pressure - Be sure to use gentle pressure when brushing and brush in a circular motion. Some patients find it beneficial to use an electric toothbrush, which helps effectively clean the teeth without excessive pressure.
- Fluoride – The application of fluoride can help remineralize and harden the outer surface of the teeth. This helps eliminate sensitivity and strengthens the tooth.
Call the office today if you are concerned about the sensitivity of your teeth. Our team can schedule an appointment to examine your mouth and ensure there are no underlying issues. We can also work with you to review strategies to help alleviate any pain you are experiencing related to your sensitivity. Be sure not to avoid professional cleanings, as this is a critical part of good oral hygiene. Patients who avoid professional cleanings can experience serious oral health issues, which require painful and invasive treatments.