My Teeth Hurt After Cleaning
What is Teeth Cleaning?
It is very important to stay on top of visiting the dentist for a dental cleaning every six months. These routine visits can help prevent plaque from turning into tartar and catch any other problems early on before they worsen. At a routine cleaning, the dental hygienist will start by giving you a physical exam of your mouth, checking your teeth and gums for any signs of cavities or inflammation. If you are due for X-rays, the dentist will take them shortly after. Following the physical exam, the dentist will clean and polish your teeth and finish with flossing. The hygienist might also provide a dental sealant and/or fluoride treatment depending on the dentist’s recommendations.
Dental Cleaning Process
Physical Exam: Teeth cleanings are often done by a dental hygienist. The hygienist will start the cleaning by giving you an oral exam of your teeth, gums, and mouth. They will look for any signs of decay, oral issues, or gum disease. The hygienist will use small dental instruments like a small mirror and a dental explorer tool similar to a small pick. If any major problems are detected, the hygienist will call upon the dentist for a closer examination.
Removal of Plaque and Tartar: While using a small mirror to see the teeth closely, the hygienist will precisely remove any buildup of plaque or tartar between the teeth or around the gumline.
Cleaning and Polishing: After the plaque and tartar are removed, the dental hygienist will begin cleaning and polishing the teeth. They will use a gritty toothpaste and a high-speed polishing tool to buff and clean the teeth. This process will remove any plaque that is left over, as well as remove any surface stains or leftover food particles. Your teeth will feel and look clean and fresh, making it harder for plaque to adhere to the enamel in the future.
Floss & Oral Rinse: The hygienist will then floss between each tooth. This will remove any plaque, food, or toothpaste from between each tooth or along the gumline. After flossing, the hygienist will have you rinse your mouth with water to wash away any debris.
Fluoride Treatment: After removing plaque and tartar, cleaning, and flossing, the dentist might recommend a fluoride treatment. Plaque that forms on teeth can cause erosion, which leads to cavities. Fluoride, a mineral, helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities from forming. A fluoride treatment is very beneficial, as teeth can weaken and become more susceptible to decay and breakage over time.
Tooth Sensitivity After Cleaning
Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar from your teeth to keep your smile healthy. While doing so, they can temporarily expose sensitive spots. If you have receding gums (which is common with age or lack of oral hygiene), the cleaning can expose the root of your teeth that lacks enamel protection. Discomfort after a dental cleaning generally subsides after 1–3 days. If it lingers after a week, this could be a sign of an underlying issue such as a cracked tooth or cavity. Call the office to schedule a visit with the dentist if you are still experiencing discomfort after a week.
Related Article: How Much Does Dental Cleaning Cost?
