In the realm of cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers are a well-liked choice for smile enhancements. These slender, tailor-made shells, often made from porcelain or composite resin, clothe the front surface of your teeth, successfully tackling numerous dental flaws. Nonetheless, similar to any dental process, grasping the advantages and drawbacks of veneers is vital before determining if they’re the apt choice for you.
Are you one of the many who’ve had a teeth cleaning, only to find yourself wrestling with the unpleasant surprise of sensitivity afterward? Or you may be contemplating a clean but are wary about potential discomfort. This article is specifically tailored for you.
You are not alone. Many patients who prioritize their oral health and opt for regular dental cleaning sessions often report an increased sensitivity in their teeth post-cleaning. The twinges when you drink something hot or cold or the sharp pain when you brush or floss can be disconcerting. If you’ve ever asked, “Why are my teeth more sensitive after cleaning?” or wondered how long you’d have to endure this discomfort, rest assured, we have the answers you seek.
At Glen Burnie Dental Group, our dedication extends beyond offering superior Cosmetic Dental Services to providing our patients with a comprehensive understanding of their dental health. We empower you to confidently take charge of your oral health by equipping you with knowledge.
In this comprehensive guide, we aim to discuss the reasons behind teeth sensitivity following a dental cleaning, explore the duration of this sensitivity, and provide effective solutions to manage and alleviate the discomfort. So, whether you recently experienced teeth sensitivity after cleaning or want to get your teeth cleaned, this article will help you navigate the process easily and confidently.
Why Are Your Teeth more Sensitive after Cleaning?
Dental cleanings are an integral part of oral hygiene. However, some patients notice that their teeth are sensitive after cleaning at the dentist. It can occur due to several reasons.
Firstly, during cleaning, the dentist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. This process might expose the dentin – the layer beneath the enamel connected to the nerve-triggering pain in teeth. So when it’s exposed, you might experience sensitivity.
Secondly, the cleaning process could cause inflammation in your gums. This inflammation can cause your gums to recede temporarily, exposing more of your tooth’s surface and leading to increased sensitivity.
However, most of these instances of increased sensitivity are temporary and will diminish on their own. If you’re interested in learning more about the sensitivity of Zoom teeth whitening and how to manage it, check out our dedicated blog post on this topic.
How Long Are Teeth Sensitive after Cleaning?
Sensitivity post-cleaning, whether routine cleaning or teeth cleaning before and after a dental procedure, usually lasts briefly.
It’s normal to experience some sensitivity immediately after cleaning, especially if it is a deep dental cleaning process. This discomfort should begin to ease after a few hours.
Typically, any sensitivity should last up to a week. If your teeth’ sensitivity after deep cleaning persists longer than that, it might indicate an underlying issue such as gum disease or tooth decay. It’s vital to consult with a dentist immediately in such cases – Teeth cleaning in Glen Burnie, MD, offers reliable service.
How to Relieve Pain after Teeth Cleaning?
Experiencing sensitive teeth after cleaning at the dentist can be distressing, but there are several remedies you can try to alleviate the discomfort.
One effective method is to use toothpaste designed specifically for sensitive teeth. These products contain compounds that block pain signals from the tooth surface to the nerve.
Another option is to rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution. Saltwater is a natural disinfectant and can soothe inflamed gums and reduce pain.
Lastly, avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks, which can exacerbate sensitivity. Stick to softer foods until the sensitivity reduces.
Solutions to Relieve Pain After Teeth Cleaning
Use Sensitive Teeth Toothpaste
One of the most straightforward yet effective remedies to tackle teeth sensitivity after cleaning is using toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth. These products usually contain potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which can block the tiny tubules in the dentin, reducing the ability of the nerves in your teeth to sense hot and cold and thus alleviate pain. Brushing twice daily with such toothpaste can help decrease the sensitivity over time.
Rinse with Saltwater
Rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution is a natural and economical method to alleviate oral discomfort. The saltwater acts as a natural disinfectant that can help soothe inflamed gums and kill bacteria in the mouth. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water to make the solution. Rinse your mouth with this solution for 30 seconds before spitting it out, repeating this process twice daily for the best results.
Adjust Your Diet
Your diet plays a significant role in managing teeth sensitivity after cleaning. Consuming extremely hot or cold foods and beverages can provoke sensitive teeth, causing discomfort. Similarly, sugary and acidic foods can also trigger pain. During the period of sensitivity, opt for softer, milder foods that are less likely to aggravate your teeth. As your sensitivity subsides, you can gradually reintroduce other foods.
Conclusion
While teeth sensitivity after cleaning can be unnerving, knowing the causes, duration, and management techniques can significantly aid in coping with the discomfort. Regular dental cleanings are an essential aspect of maintaining oral health. It’s important to remember that the temporary sensitivity should not deter you from reaping the long-term benefits of cleanings, such as tartar removal and prevention of gum disease, and the overarching dentist teeth cleaning benefits.
At Glen Burnie Dental Group, we understand the importance of keeping your smile beautiful and healthy. We prioritize patient education and ensure that everyone who enters our doors feels confident and informed about their treatment plans.
If your sensitivity persists for over a week, we urge you to seek immediate dental attention. Regular dental check-ups and good home care are the best way to maintain oral health. Remember, your comfort and health are our priority.
Teeth cleaning in Glen Burnie, MD, is just a call away. We invite you to book your appointment today for a more personalized consultation and continue your journey toward optimal dental health. Let us help you maintain that healthy and radiant smile.