Have you ever undergone dental cleaning only to experience sensitivity later on? Many patients complain about teeth sensitivity and pain after a simple dental cleaning or deep cleaning. So what is the reason behind this sensitivity, and what can you do to minimize or eliminate it? This article will explain the cause of sensitivity and how to relieve pain after a dental cleaning.
Let’s get started!
What Causes Pain After Dental Cleaning?
When dental cleaning is performed on teeth with exposed dentin, pain and sensitivity are common outcomes.
Enamel is the outermost layer of the tooth that protects the inner layers from contamination. Dentin is the layer next to enamel and protects the nerve tissue that resides inside our teeth.
Dentin is very sensitive, and during the dental cleaning, instruments touch and compress it to eliminate the contaminants. This can result in the tooth becoming more sensitive.
When cleaning is performed on teeth with exposed roots, it may cause sensitivity.
Patients with gum recession or with grinding habits have exposed tooth roots. During the dental cleaning, these roots are cleaned and can become highly sensitive. Usually, this area of the teeth is what causes the sensitivity after cleaning.
How To Relieve Pain After A Dental Cleaning
Here are a few steps you can take to relieve pain after a dental cleaning.
- Toothpaste for sensitive teeth: Make use of toothpaste made specifically for sensitive teeth. These pastes are good at relieving pain and sensitivity after a dental cleaning.
- Rinse with warm salt water: If you have gum inflammation after a dental cleaning, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe the discomfort. Many times dental hygienists clean the areas under the gum tissue that lead to sensitivity. Using warm salt water will speed up your gum tissue’s healing, minimizing the pain and sensitivity after your dental cleaning.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Even under normal circumstances, you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush. During the days of your dental cleaning, avoid using medium or hard bristles. A Hard bristled toothbrush can worsen your sensitivity after teeth cleaning session.
- Use warm water with honey: Honey brings soothing effects to pain and sensitivity after a dental cleaning. Drink warm water with honey at least thrice a day to provide relief to your teeth and eliminate the sensitivity.
- Take ibuprofen: If you have tartar or plaque buildup on your teeth, your gums may swell after a dental cleaning. An effective way to relieve pain after a dental cleaning is to take Advil, Motrin, or other ibuprofen at least an hour before visiting your dentist. Take another dose around 5-6 hours after the cleaning.
Is Tooth Sensitivity Common?
Discomfort and sensitivity after a dental cleaning is a common issue. Above are a few tips you can follow to soothe the pain. However, if the pain persists or worsens over time, it’s best to call for professional help.
Contact us
Book an appointment with the dentists at Pasadena Oral Surgery by calling (281) 299 0053.