My Teeth Hurt After Cleaning
If you have not been to the dentist for a professional cleaning in some time, the first one back may leave your teeth feeling a bit sore or sensitive. Even patients who attend their cleanings regularly can sometimes notice discomfort afterward. This may feel unsettling, but it is usually temporary and quite common. Tooth sensitivity after a cleaning occurs for a variety of reasons, and understanding them can help you manage the discomfort more effectively. If you are worried about pain after a cleaning or are experiencing it, read on to learn more.
Why Teeth May Hurt After a Cleaning
During a cleaning, your hygienist uses instruments that reach areas you cannot access with daily brushing and flossing. Plaque and tartar are scraped away from the enamel and below the gumline, which is more pressure and contact than your teeth are accustomed to. For individuals who already have gum recession, exposed roots, or weakened enamel, this extra attention can trigger temporary sensitivity.
The enamel that covers the crown of the tooth is designed to protect it from hot, cold, and pressure. However, the root of the tooth does not have the same protective coating. If the gum tissue has receded, this area is vulnerable. The exposed dentin beneath contains tiny tubules that lead directly to the nerve, which explains the sudden zings of discomfort you might feel when sipping an icy drink or biting into something warm.
There are several factors that increase the chance of experiencing sensitivity:
- Brushing too hard: Many people use too much force when brushing, which wears away enamel and irritates gum tissue.
- Inconsistent oral hygiene: Skipping brushing or flossing allows plaque to accumulate, which can eventually lead to gum recession.
- Dental procedures: Cleanings, fillings, whitening, and crowns can temporarily aggravate the teeth.
- Dietary habits: Frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages erodes enamel over time.
Ways to Relieve Sensitivity
The good news is that this discomfort typically improves within a few days as your gums and teeth adjust. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to ease the irritation.
- Switch to a sensitive toothpaste: These formulas contain compounds that block the pathways from the surface of the tooth to the nerve, dulling sensitivity.
- Brush gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and lighter pressure. Brushing too hard not only increases sensitivity but also speeds up gum recession.
- Use a fluoride rinse: Fluoride strengthens enamel and can reduce discomfort by providing a protective barrier.
- Avoid triggers: Extremely hot, cold, or acidic foods may worsen sensitivity immediately after a cleaning. Choosing softer, room-temperature foods for a few days can help.
When to Call the Dentist
Mild soreness and sensitivity are normal after a cleaning, especially if it has been a while since your last visit. However, if the pain does not subside within several days or if it worsens, it is important to contact your dentist. Persistent pain may point to decay, infection, or gum disease that requires additional treatment.
Dental cleanings are a crucial part of maintaining a healthy smile. While temporary sensitivity can be an unpleasant side effect, the long-term benefits of a cleaner, healthier mouth far outweigh a few days of discomfort.